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Truncated Map Misstep: Israel Apologizes and Reaffirms Recognition of Morocco's Sovereignty Sahara

Truncated Map Misstep: Israel Apologizes and Reaffirms Recognition of Morocco's Sovereignty Sahara
Friday 31 May 2024 - 14:44
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In response to a diplomatic blunder, Israel has issued an apology and reaffirmed its recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over Sahara after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu displayed a truncated map of Morocco during a recent interview.

During an interview with French media outlets LCI and TF1 on Thursday evening, May 30, Netanyahu used a map that omitted the Sahara region, inadvertently contradicting Israel's stance on the issue. Within hours, his office took to social media to express regret over the incident.

"A regrettable error," read the statement from Netanyahu's office, acknowledging the oversight. "The Israeli government recognizes the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Morocco over all its territories, and all official maps in the Prime Minister's office have been corrected accordingly."

Further underscoring Israel's commitment to its position, Hassan Kaabia, the spokesperson for the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, conveyed an apology directly to His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the Moroccan government, and the Moroccan people for the "unintentional error."

"Due to an unintentional mistake, a major media controversy erupted concerning the map used by Benjamin Netanyahu, which showed Morocco without its Sahara," Kaabia explained. He added, "I wish to clarify to His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God protect him, as well as to his beloved people and respected government, that Morocco is in its Sahara until God inherits the Earth." The spokesperson also emphasized that Israel "will not go back on its historic recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara."

The swift corrective action and unequivocal reaffirmation of Israel's stance highlight the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic relations with Morocco, a key ally in the region. The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate nature of international affairs and the need for precision in matters of territorial sovereignty.

As the dust settles on this diplomatic hiccup, both nations can now refocus their efforts on strengthening their partnership and addressing the myriad challenges facing the region. The unwavering commitment to open communication and mutual respect demonstrated by Israel's swift response will undoubtedly reinforce the bonds between the two nations.


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