Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently caused a stir with Morocco after displaying a map on French television that did not include the disputed Western Sahara as part of Morocco. This led to backlash in Moroccan media and a swift apology from Israel. The incident highlighted the ongoing conflict over Western Sahara, with Morocco claiming sovereignty over the region.
Despite this misstep, Israel affirmed its recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in a letter to King Mohammed VI. The move to normalize diplomatic relations with Israel in 2020 was part of the US-brokered Abraham Accords, which also included the UAE and Bahrain. However, public outcry in Morocco over Israel’s actions in Gaza has increased calls for a break in diplomatic ties.
Netanyahu’s map mistake further fueled tensions, with many Moroccans opposing the government’s relationship with Israel. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to a humanitarian crisis, further straining relations between Morocco and Israel.