Israel and Morocco to Open Embassies Following Diplomatic Talks
In a significant diplomatic advancement, Israel and Morocco have reached an agreement to establish embassies in each other's territories. This decision came to fruition during a meeting in New York attended by Morocco's Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, and Mike Waltz, the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. The discussions, which took place on September 17, 2026, highlight the ongoing collaboration between the two nations, which first formalized their relationship in 2020 under the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords. This historic accord not only facilitated the normalization of relations between Morocco and Israel but also saw the U.S. recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara, marking a pivotal moment in Middle Eastern diplomacy.
Enhanced Diplomatic Relations and Future Cooperation
Following their meeting, both countries reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing diplomatic relations by upgrading their respective missions to embassies and appointing ambassadors. A joint statement issued by the U.S. mission at the UN emphasized that fostering full diplomatic relations between Morocco and Israel serves the mutual interests of both nations and promotes peace in the region. Although a specific timeline for the embassy establishment has not been disclosed, the commitment to finalize a series of economic agreements by the end of the year was noted. Additionally, both nations anticipate high-level reciprocal visits in the coming months, indicating a robust future of cooperation across various sectors, including trade, tourism, and security.
Despite the ongoing tensions surrounding the Palestinian cause, Morocco has maintained a unique position among Arab nations, being one of the few capable of engaging with Israel while navigating public sentiment that often favors the Palestinian perspective. Historical ties between the Jewish community in Morocco and the broader Arab world have allowed for a continued dialogue, even amidst periods of conflict. The normalization of relations in 2020 marked a turning point, enhancing cooperation in multiple fields, including agriculture and technology, and facilitating direct flights between the two countries.
As both nations move forward with their diplomatic endeavors, the international community remains vigilant about the potential implications for regional stability and peace. The U.S. continues to monitor the situation closely, advocating against any actions that might exacerbate tensions in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
As reported by rfi.fr.
