Morocco and Israel Announce Opening of Embassies Amid Controversy
On September 16, 2026, the governments of Morocco and Israel took a significant step forward in their diplomatic relations by announcing the opening of embassies in each other's countries. This decision comes six years after the two nations agreed to normalize relations, a move that has been met with considerable resistance in Morocco, where public sentiment largely opposes the rapprochement with Israel. The announcement was made during a meeting in New York, where Morocco's Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita and Israeli counterpart Gideon Saar, under the auspices of U.S. Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz, expressed their commitment to "elevate the level of their diplomatic relations." The new arrangement is expected to be formalized by the end of the year, with agreements on investment protection and the avoidance of double taxation, alongside enhancements in air travel and high-level bilateral visits.
Public Outcry and Planned Protests
As Morocco approaches its legislative elections scheduled for September 23, the announcement has sparked outrage among segments of the Moroccan population. Many citizens, driven by opposition to the normalization of relations with Israel, have planned to mobilize for protests on September 25, 26, and 27. These demonstrations are being organized by groups opposed to the normalization, highlighting the contentious nature of the relationship between Morocco and Israel. Reports indicate that the protests aim to voice the discontent of those who feel that the normalization process is being used to distract from pressing domestic issues, such as the Western Sahara dispute, which remains a sensitive subject in Moroccan politics. The unfolding events suggest a complex interplay between international diplomacy and domestic political dynamics in Morocco, as the government seeks to balance external relations with internal public opinion.
As reported by courrierinternational.com.
