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Morocco-Israel relations, formally established under the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords in December 2020, remain deeply controversial at home.
While the Moroccan government positioned the move as a step toward diplomacy and economic opportunity, large segments of the public never accepted it. Support for Palestine runs deep in Moroccan society—and recent violence in Gaza has reignited nationwide opposition.
Takeaway: Morocco-Israel relations may be official, but public resistance is loud and growing.
Why Protesters Are Targeting Ports
Ports like Tangier Med and Casablanca have become flashpoints. Protesters aim to block ships they believe are tied to Israel’s military supply chain.
The focus? Vessels operated by Maersk, a Danish shipping company reportedly transporting components for the U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets. Activists argue those parts may ultimately support Israeli air operations, even if indirectly.
Inspired by successful port protests in Spain, Moroccan activists are using similar tactics to send a clear message: no complicity in arming Israel.
Takeaway: Strategic ports are now symbolic battlegrounds in the fight against Morocco-Israel relations.
April Protests Mark a Turning Point
On April 20, 2025, thousands rallied to block military-linked vessels from docking. Signs like “Reject the ship” and “Stop shipping weapons” filled the ports.
The movement isn’t isolated. It’s backed by Morocco’s largest labor union and the anti-monarchy Islamist group Al Adl wal Ihsan. Their joint presence signals rising coordination—and national reach.
Ismail Lghazaoui, a leading activist, was arrested for online comments condemning Maersk. He’s now charged with incitement, further fueling public anger.
Takeaway: Protesters are organized, gaining support, and not backing down.
Government Holds the Line, But Pushback Builds
Authorities have cracked down—dispersing crowds, arresting demonstrators, and prosecuting organizers. Yet the government insists Morocco-Israel relations are necessary to support Gaza aid and advance a two-state solution.
Critics aren’t convinced. They argue the policy ignores deep domestic discontent and ongoing issues like Amazigh marginalization and tensions in Western Sahara.
Even the Justice and Development Party—once supportive of normalization—has shifted, recently inviting Hamas representatives to Rabat (though visas were denied).
Takeaway: The government defends Morocco-Israel relations, but political pressure is mounting.
Shipping Disputes and Transparency Questions
Maersk denies it ships weapons to Israel. The company says U.S. end-use certificates prove where cargo is headed. Moroccan port officials claim they lack legal authority to inspect foreign ships unless there’s a specific order.
Still, protesters see this as a smokescreen. In their view, allowing potential military shipments to pass through Moroccan ports makes the country complicit.
Takeaway: Regardless of technicalities, Morocco-Israel relations are under fire over perceived military support.
Nationwide Movement Gains Momentum
More than 110 demonstrations across 66 cities have erupted in recent weeks. From dock blockades to marches, a national wave of protest is building.
For many, it’s about more than foreign policy. It’s a wider critique of how Morocco’s leadership operates—disconnected from public sentiment and unaccountable in its decisions.
Takeaway: These protests reflect not just anger over Israel—but deep frustration with how Morocco is governed.
