Strengthening Diplomatic Relations Between Israel and Morocco

In a significant development, Israel and Morocco have announced plans to send ambassadors to each other's capitals for the first time since the normalization of their diplomatic relations. This decision comes following a trilateral meeting held in New York, where Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar revealed that the existing liaison offices in both nations would be upgraded to full-fledged embassies. Morocco was one of four Arab nations that took steps towards normalizing relations with Israel in 2020 as part of the Abraham Accords, a historic agreement brokered by the United States.

The establishment of regular embassies was a target set during the normalization discussions back in 2020. The recent agreement reached in New York aims to put this plan into action. Furthermore, a joint statement released by the U.S. Mission to the United Nations indicated that direct flights between Morocco and Israel, operated by both Israeli and Moroccan airlines, are expected to resume before the end of the year. Both countries are also planning to finalize agreements on investment protection and the avoidance of double taxation by year-end.

Potential for Growth in Israel-Morocco Relations

Foreign Minister Saar emphasized the significance of the relationship between Israel and Morocco, stating that it holds great potential for both nations and their peoples. He expressed gratitude to their American allies for their crucial role in strengthening these ties after meeting with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz.

The Abraham Accords not only included Morocco but also saw the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Sudan begin normalizing their relations with Israel. These agreements represented a pivotal shift, breaking the long-standing principle that normalization should only occur after resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In return for Morocco's recognition of Israel, both the United States and Israel acknowledged Morocco's claim to the disputed territory of Western Sahara. This position has been reaffirmed by both allies amidst growing international debate over the status of Western Sahara, which continues to remain contentious.

As reported by live.deutsche-boerse.com.