Morocco: Pro-Palestinian activists plan to protest nationwide March 30

Event

The Moroccan Front for Supporting Palestine and Against Normalization, a pro-Palestinian group, has announced plans for protests across Morocco on March 30, including in front of the Parliament building in Rabat, as well as in Marrakech, Tangier, and Agadir. The actions are to commemorate Palestinian Land Day, marking the 1976 killing of six Arab citizens demonstrating against land appropriation by Israel. Activists are demanding that the Moroccan authorities cease normalizing and strengthening ties with Israel. Possible protest locations include major thoroughfares, public squares, city centers, and outside government buildings.

Authorities will likely increase security at protest sites. Large numbers of protesters will likely cause localized transport disruptions, particularly in major cities like Rabat and Marrakesh. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators ignore police orders to disperse or are overly disruptive.

Context

Morocco became the fourth Arab state in 2020 to agree to resume diplomatic relations with Israel, following the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Sudan. Morocco also agreed to grant overflights of its airspace and direct commercial flights to and from Israel for all Israeli citizens. While Morocco and Israel have historically maintained unofficial diplomatic ties, Rabat's recognition of the state of Israel transpired after former President Donald J. Trump recognized Morocco's claim of sovereignty over Western Sahara in December 2020. Israel and Morocco reopened diplomatic missions in each other's capitals in January 2021 and have continued to deepen their economic and trade ties.

Advice

Avoid all protests due to the potential for clashes. Heed the advice of security personnel. Allow additional time if traveling through affected areas March 30.