Amar Belani, a former Algerian diplomat, has seemingly discovered his primary subject of interest: Morocco. Out of the thirteen articles he has published recently, five are directly dedicated to this neighboring country, showcasing a remarkable editorial commitment, even if the Moroccan kingdom appears to be less than appreciative of this affection. Belani's fascination is not merely a fleeting curiosity but rather a passionate pursuit that he expresses multiple times a week, indicating a profound engagement with Moroccan affairs.
As of September 18, his author page on TSA lists thirteen tribunes published since August 20, of which nearly 40% focus on Morocco or the Sahara. This level of consistency transcends mere diplomatic curiosity; it reflects an editorial loyalty that is hard to overlook. Belani has a history that informs this focus. Previously, he served as Algeria's special envoy for Western Sahara and the Maghreb region before being appointed as the Secretary General of the Algerian Foreign Ministry. Although his official duties have evolved, the Moroccan dossier has remained a constant in his professional life, seemingly shifting from a diplomatic brief to a recurring theme in his writings.
Since August 25, Morocco has featured prominently in Belani's discussions, appearing in articles about the Abraham Accords, critiques of Rabat's perceived disruptive capabilities, and even legal maneuvers attributed to Brussels. He has also highlighted a Spanish law that he describes as a significant setback for Morocco, followed by yet another indictment of what he views as Morocco's precarious diplomatic balancing act. This flurry of commentary—four articles in just ten days—demonstrates that even the most fervent passions can experience brief intermissions.
Shifting Dynamics in Spanish-Moroccan Relations
Belani's complex relationship with Morocco also reveals intriguing fluctuations in his perspective, particularly concerning Spain. On September 3, he characterized Spain as "paralyzed" by fear of Morocco, suggesting that Madrid is so intimidated by potential Moroccan reprisals that it opts to "bend the knee." He portrayed Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez as weak and overly cautious in the face of Rabat's daunting leverage.
However, just ten days later, the narrative shifted dramatically. In another article focused on Morocco and Spain, he described Spain as a fully functioning democracy, where the Parliament operates independently, the judiciary conducts investigations, and the press provides commentary without restraint. In this rendition, it is Morocco that is depicted as incapable of respecting the independence of Spanish institutions. Over the span of a few days, Spain transformed from a state gripped by fear of Morocco into a sovereign democracy that stands its ground. Such emotional volatility highlights how quickly narratives can evolve, compelling figures like Belani to adapt their roles accordingly. It is worth noting that TSA clarifies these tribunes represent Belani's personal opinions and not those of the editorial staff.
Belani's fixation on Morocco is not a recent development; it dates back to at least March 2022, when he was noted for his critical remarks against Morocco in a new statement. Months later, he accused Rabat of undermining the efforts of the UN Secretary-General's personal envoy for the Sahara. Although diplomatic roles may change, Belani's vocabulary regarding Morocco remains remarkably consistent. He describes Morocco variously as threatening, aggrieved, humiliated, destabilized, belligerent, and caught in its own web of politics. Yet, as one navigates through this array of tribunes, an alternate reality emerges: the individual who dedicates the most attention to Rabat may not always be the one he claims to critique.
Belani can find solace in knowing that even after concluding his official duties, his previous specialty is unlikely to fade from relevance. Morocco continues to hold a significant place on his agenda, a one-sided love story, indeed, but one nurtured with a consistency that is almost admirable.
As reported by bladi.net.
