Rabat is emerging as a central player in efforts to stabilize Gaza following months of conflict, extending beyond financial contributions to encompass security cooperation and a potential peacekeeping role. Although repeatedly calling for a ceasefire and a two-state solution, Morocco has quietly positioned itself as a key facilitator in the complex diplomatic landscape, leveraging existing relationships and addressing regional security concerns. This shift underscores a delicate balance between maintaining solidarity with the Palestinian cause and safeguarding its own strategic interests, particularly in light of evolving regional threats.
The involvement comes as international efforts intensify to forge a lasting resolution to the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Hamas has indicated a willingness to accept foreign forces in Gaza, but under strict conditions – namely, that they do not interfere in internal affairs and focus on monitoring a ceasefire and acting as a buffer between Israeli forces and Palestinians, according to a spokesperson speaking to AFP. Morocco’s commitment extends to contributing to the $7 billion pledged for Gaza’s reconstruction, signaling a multifaceted approach to the crisis.
Morocco’s Security Concerns and Regional Alignment
The escalating conflict in Gaza has, paradoxically, strengthened security cooperation between Morocco and Israel, driven by a shared concern over Iranian influence in the region. According to the Atlantic Council, this cooperation has “never been stronger.” Since 2018, Morocco has voiced concerns about Iranian expansionist ambitions in Western Sahara, following the severance of diplomatic ties with Tehran over alleged support for the Polisario Front separatists through Lebanese Hezbollah. Reports have confirmed increased Iranian interference in the disputed territory, including the supply of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), surface-to-air missiles, and mortar shells, bolstering the separatist group. This perceived threat has prompted closer intelligence sharing and coordination with Israel, despite domestic public sentiment largely favoring the Palestinian cause.
The Moroccan-Israeli rapprochement, initiated by the 2020 tripartite agreement brokered by the United States, faced potential setbacks due to pro-Palestinian protests within Morocco, as reported by The Times of Israel. Tens of thousands of Moroccans demonstrated in support of Palestinians in October 2023, marking the largest such demonstration since the normalization of ties with Israel. However, behind the scenes, security collaboration continued to flourish, highlighting a divergence between public discourse and strategic priorities.
Trump’s “Board of Peace” and Morocco’s Role in the International Stabilization Force
The United States, under President Donald Trump, has been actively pursuing a diplomatic initiative to end the war, including the creation of an International Stabilization Force (ISF) to be deployed in Gaza. Morocco has been prominently featured in this effort, with Trump publicly acknowledging the country’s contribution, stating “Maroc, merci beaucoup,” as reported by Medias24.
Morocco is expected to contribute troops to the US-commanded force, which could ultimately comprise up to 20,000 personnel, with Indonesia pledging 8,000. US General Jasper Jeffers has announced that five countries have already committed troops, including Morocco, though the specific number of Moroccan personnel remains undisclosed. The role of the ISF, as outlined by Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem, would be to monitor a ceasefire and act as a buffer, without intervening in Gaza’s internal affairs.
Balancing Domestic Pressure and Geopolitical Interests
Morocco’s position reflects a broader dilemma faced by Arab nations with ties to Israel – balancing domestic public opinion with strategic considerations. As Worldcrunch notes, Morocco has adopted a careful diplomatic stance, repeatedly calling for a ceasefire while maintaining discreet channels of communication with Israel. This approach is also influenced by Morocco’s significant Jewish-Moroccan population, adding another layer of complexity to its foreign policy calculations.
The country is also providing aid beyond troop deployment, offering financial assistance, police support, and healthcare aid to Gaza, as detailed by tv5monde. This comprehensive approach underscores Morocco’s commitment to contributing to a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
As negotiations continue and the proposed ISF takes shape, Morocco’s role will likely remain pivotal. The success of any stabilization effort will depend on navigating the complex interplay of regional interests, domestic pressures, and the fundamental requirement for a lasting ceasefire. The next procedural step will be the formal deployment of the ISF and the implementation of the reconstruction plan for Gaza, contingent upon a sustained cessation of hostilities and a commitment to long-term peace.
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