Controversy Erupts as Moroccan Delegation Visits Israel Amid Gaza Turmoil

Thursday 11 July 2024 - 08:00

In a move that has sparked outrage among Moroccans, a delegation of young academics, social activists, and social media influencers recently visited Israel, drawing sharp criticism from the public. The trip, organized by the "Sharakah" organization, aimed to promote the peace established by the Arab-Israeli peace agreement between Israel and several Arab countries that have restored relations with Tel Aviv.

However, the timing of the visit, which coincides with the Israeli Occupation Forces' (IOF) ongoing military campaign in Gaza, has been met with widespread condemnation. As the IOF continues its relentless assault, claiming the lives of countless Palestinian civilians, many Moroccans have taken to the streets and social media to denounce the delegation's actions.

"These are not Moroccans but dogs of Israel," one commenter wrote on the popular social media platform X, echoing the sentiment of many others who shared the delegation's photos from Israel. The public's outrage stems from the belief that this visit does not align with Morocco's steadfast support for the Palestinian cause.

"You know that the Moroccan people stand with Palestine and the resistance, with daily demonstrations taking place in Moroccan cities. So do not try to portray the Moroccan people as being with Israel because of these few individuals who claim to be Moroccans," one individual wrote passionately.

Morocco's government has repeatedly emphasized its unwavering support for the Palestinian people, calling for an immediate ceasefire to end the suffering of Palestinians amid the IOF's merciless campaign in Gaza. This stance has been a cornerstone of the country's foreign policy, with Moroccan cities such as Rabat, Tangier, and Casablanca hosting weekly protests to denounce Israeli aggression and demand an end to the diplomatic rapprochement between Morocco and Israel.

The delegation's visit has struck a nerve with the Moroccan public, who see it as a betrayal of their nation's long-standing solidarity with the Palestinian cause. As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, the public's outcry against the delegation's actions serves as a powerful reminder of Morocco's commitment to supporting the rights and well-being of the Palestinian people.