Calls for Reevaluation of Morocco-Israel Normalization Agreement
In a significant political statement, Abdelilah Benkirane, the Secretary-General of the Moroccan opposition Justice and Development Party, has urged a review of the normalization agreement between Morocco and Israel. Speaking at a party meeting in Rabat, he articulated that the current agreements lack moral justification, especially in light of the ongoing violence in Gaza and Lebanon. Benkirane, who previously served as Morocco's prime minister, condemned the actions of Israel, stating that the normalization agreements are now devoid of reasonable, logical, or moral grounds.
Benkirane's remarks come amid escalating tensions in the region, with the Israeli military offensive in Gaza resulting in devastating casualties, including over 137,000 Palestinians dead or wounded, many of whom are women and children. He expressed solidarity with the victims, noting that the impact of the violence resonates deeply within Moroccan society. “Even if people are silent, they feel that these bullets penetrated their bodies and killed their brothers,” he stated, emphasizing the emotional toll of the conflict.
Historical Context of Morocco-Israel Relations
The normalization agreement between Morocco and Israel was signed on December 10, 2020, making Morocco the fourth Arab nation to establish formal ties with Israel, following Bahrain, the UAE, and Sudan. This agreement was part of a broader trend of normalization in the Arab world, beginning with Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in 1994. Benkirane's call to reconsider these agreements reflects a growing sentiment among opposition leaders and citizens who are increasingly critical of the implications of such diplomatic relations, particularly in the context of Israel's military actions in the Palestinian territories and Lebanon.
Benkirane also extended condolences to the Lebanese people, reinforcing the notion that the struggle against oppression is a shared one across the region. He concluded his speech with a message of resilience, stating, “War is one day for us and one day against us, and in all cases and in the end, the nation whose sons seek martyrdom will be victorious.” This sentiment resonates with many in the Arab world who are advocating for justice and peace in the face of ongoing conflicts.
