Morocco Sets Up Crisis Cells to Support Nationals in Libya Amid Rising Unrest
The ministry said it is closely monitoring the situation and has activated emergency response units both in Morocco and at the Moroccan Consulate General in Tripoli.
A statement from the ministry advised Moroccan nationals in Libya to exercise maximum caution, remain indoors, and avoid areas of tension and public gatherings that could pose risks to their safety.
To assist Moroccan citizens during this period, the Ministry has provided the following contact numbers:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Morocco): Landlines: +212 5 37 67 60 53 / +212 5 37 67 63 50
Mobile: +212 6 61 59 93 62
Moroccan Consulate General in Tripoli: Landline: +218 21 36 19 031
WhatsApp: +212 6 66 91 33 00 / +212 6 97 73 82 24
It said the contact points are available to provide support and information to Moroccan nationals affected by the current situation in Libya.
Libya has recently experienced significant unrest, particularly in the capital, Tripoli. On May 12, clashes erupted following the assassination of Abdel Ghani al-Kikli, a prominent militia leader known as 'Gheniwa.'
His death led to violent confrontations between rival armed groups, resulting in multiple casualties and widespread disruption in the city.
In response to the escalating violence, the Libyan government announced a ceasefire on May 14, aiming to restore order and protect civilians.
Despite these efforts, public dissatisfaction has grown, with protests demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibah. The unrest has also led to the resignation of three government ministers. Tags: conflictLibyaMorocco
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Morocco World
an hour ago
- Morocco World
For Israel, Normalization Isn't Enough; They Demand Blind Devotion
Marrakech – The vicious assault on Ambassador Youssef El Amrani, Morocco's representative to the United States since October 2023, and his wife Asma Lamrabet exposes the grotesque reality of what Israel's most rabid supporters truly want: not peaceful coexistence, not mutual respect, but Morocco's complete and utter submission. Moroccan sovereignty cannot be left undefended when it is trampled under the guise of 'friendship' with Israel. The brazenness of this attack on Morocco's diplomatic independence is an affront so egregious it constitutes nothing less than neo-colonial aggression against the kingdom's sovereignty, revealing the colonial mindset still festering beneath the veneer of some 'friendships.' Let's examine what sparked this firestorm. In his JFeed article 'Does an Anti-Semitic Family Represent Morocco in DC?', Mustapha Ezzarghani – president of the Moroccan-Israeli Friendship Association, an American organization 'working to strengthen relations between the Kingdom of Morocco and the State of Israel' – launches a direct assault on Morocco's ambassador's character and competence. This is the same man who shamelessly penned 'This Moroccan says, yes, we are all Israelis' for The Times of Israel, collecting pats on the head from his handlers while betraying his nation's dignity. That piece is steeped in a duplicity and opportunism that lays bare a sinister truth: for these lobbyists, normalization is worthless unless it comes with complete, unquestioning devotion to Israel's every action. A weaponized campaign of defamation 'El Amrani has failed to deliver meaningful results for Moroccan diplomacy thus far,' Ezzarghani claims. 'Despite being in the US for over a year, El Amrani has declined to engage with Moroccan Jewish community leaders and organizations advocating for stronger Moroccan-Israeli relations. Under his leadership, the Moroccan Embassy in Washington no longer maintains the open-door policy it once had for Jewish organizations and groups promoting ties between Morocco and Israel.' He then extends his attack to Lamrabet, claiming her social media posts about Gaza reflect 'anti-Israeli sentiments and anti-Semitic views,' deliberately conflating criticism of Israel's actions with hatred of Jews. Let's call this what it is: a political assassination attempt. By hurling the nuclear accusation of 'anti-Semitism' at Morocco's ambassador and his wife, Ezzarghani isn't engaging in criticism – he's executing a carefully calculated character execution. The accusation of anti-Semitism, wielded like a bludgeon against El Amrani, is nothing short of diplomatic blackmail. In Washington's corridors of power, such accusations aren't merely words; they're professional death sentences, designed to exterminate careers and silence voices with ruthless efficiency. That Ezzarghani deploys this weapon against a fellow Moroccan exposes his true allegiance. How ironic that this assault comes draped in the banner of America's First Amendment freedoms – a nation that has prided itself for over 250 years on protecting free expression – while seeking to deny those same rights to Ambassador El Amrani and Lamrabet. The free speech these lobbyists claim to cherish apparently extends only to those who parrot their preferred narrative, enforcing a rigid pro-Israel orthodoxy that has become almost a civic religion in parts of the United States. The hit piece published on JFeed – a propaganda outlet masquerading as journalism – radiates fascistic intolerance. Its author, Ezzarghani, has revealed himself as nothing more than a puppet dancing to Tel Aviv's tune while wrapping himself in Morocco's flag. His attack on El Amrani appeared in a publication founded in 2023 by right-wing religious Zionist Eli Kutilef, a platform dedicated to promoting the extremist vision of 'Greater Israel' among English-speaking Jewish communities. Hypocrisy and the assault on Moroccan independence The staggering audacity of this assault cannot be overstated. El Amrani serves at the pleasure of King Mohammed VI, appointed under Article 55 of the 2011 Constitution (the same constitution that recognizes the Hebraic component as part of Morocco's national identity). To attack him is to attack the sovereign decision-making of the monarchy and, by extension, the Moroccan state itself. This is not criticism – it's subversion masquerading as concern. This attack doesn't just target one diplomat; it's a direct assault on the sovereign decision-making authority of the monarchy. It spits in the face of Morocco's constitutional order and mocks the nation's independence. This is its unmistakable message: Morocco's King cannot be trusted to appoint his own representatives without Israeli approval. What ought to gall every principled observer is the brazen hypocrisy at play. The accusation itself is so patently absurd it would be laughable if it weren't so dangerous. El Amrani has exhaustively demonstrated his commitment to Morocco's Jewish heritage. He's participated in Hilloula celebrations in Florida, where he spoke about the strength of bonds between the Moroccan Jewish community and their original country. He attended Mimouna festivities in Washington, spotlighting Morocco's traditions of cultural and religious diversity. Just this past May, at a conference organized by a major Jewish coalition, El Amrani publicly stated that 'Morocco teaches the Holocaust in its school curricula,' earning enthusiastic applause. Yet these facts are inconvenient obstacles to the lobby's agenda, so they're conveniently ignored in favor of fabricated grievances. But the truth remains: These aren't the actions of an anti-Semite but of a diplomat faithfully representing Morocco's nuanced position. As for Lamrabet, Ezzarghani's attempt to weaponize her personal views on Gaza's humanitarian catastrophe reveals the totalitarian mindset at work. The attempt to pillory her for expressing human sympathy for Gaza's suffering children is reprehensible. This distinguished academic, physician, and feminist has spent her career advocating for religious reform and interfaith dialogue. She's even facilitated connections with female Jewish religious leaders like the French rabbi Pauline Bebe. The suggestion that her personal views on the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza somehow disqualify her husband from diplomatic service – and now finds herself smeared for the crime of basic human empathy – exposes a deep-seated authoritarian litmus test in which absolute, uncritical fealty to Israel is the sole admissible stance. Here again, the message is chillingly clear: in the eyes of these extremists, even tears shed for dying Palestinian children are rebranded as evidence of anti-Semitism. Let's cut through the smokescream. This calculated conflation of anti-Zionism with anti-Semitism is intellectual terrorism. This isn't about anti-Semitism – it's about enforcing pro-Zionism as the only permissible stance. Judaism is a rich, ancient faith tradition; Zionism is a modern political ideology. Criticizing Israel's policies is no more anti-Semitic than criticizing Saudi Arabia is Islamophobic. We must not conflate Judaism with Zionism, just as we reject equating Islam with Islamism. These deliberate conflations serve only those who wish to silence legitimate criticism behind accusations of bigotry. From opportunism to diplomatic colonization The most revolting aspect of this attack is its naked opportunism. By linking Trump's return to the White House with Morocco's diplomatic positioning, Ezzarghani shows his true colors. He cynically suggests that America's recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara – a recognition based on historical legitimacy and strategic partnership – somehow depends on the Moroccan ambassador's willingness to prostrate himself before pro-Israeli lobbies. This isn't just false; it's a reprehensible attempt to hold Morocco's territorial integrity hostage to foreign interests, a dangerous attempt to hijack the country's foreign policy. What we're witnessing is nothing less than diplomatic colonization by proxy – a new form of imperialism where nations are expected to surrender not just resources but their very voice on the world stage. These self-appointed gatekeepers, these self-appointed commissars demand not just normalization but absolute servitude. They expect Morocco to surrender its independent voice on the world stage and parrot Israeli positions without question. They expect Morocco to function as Israel's ventriloquist dummy, Rabat's diplomatic corps reduced to mindless parrots regurgitating whatever position serves Tel Aviv's interests. They seek to hollow out Moroccan diplomacy, turning seasoned ambassadors into lifeless props, their only function to mouth the lines scripted in Israel's foreign policy apparatchiks. The attack on El Amrani and Lamrabet exposes the lobby's three-pronged strategy of domination: First, Morocco must not merely normalize but 'love Israel' with cult-like devotion; second, even the private thoughts and personal sympathies of diplomats' families must be policed for ideological purity; and third, Morocco's representation in Washington must pass a loyalty test administered not by Rabat but by fanatical pro-Israeli interests. Drawing the line for Morocco's sovereignty This is imperial arrogance of the highest order. It betrays a colonizer's patronage, subject-master mentality that views Morocco not as a sovereign partner but as a client state to be controlled. The underlying assumption – that Moroccans cannot be trusted to determine their own foreign policy without supervision – is profoundly racist and infantilizing. The real insult lies in the presumption that Morocco requires foreign custodians – that its seasoned diplomats are incapable of defending the kingdom's national interests without the leash and oversight of self-appointed overlords. This patronizing attitude reveals the colonial mindset still festering beneath the veneer of 'friendship.' The timing of this attack is no coincidence. According to reliable sources in Washington, Ezzarghani wasn't invited to the 26th Throne Day celebration hosted by the Moroccan embassy this year – an event that welcomed nearly 750 people, including Jews of various nationalities, several rabbis, and likely even Israelis. This reveals the petty personal grudges driving this supposedly principled stand. This isn't about policy; it's about wounded egos and thwarted self-importance. There must be a categorical rejection of any attempt to transform normalization into subjugation. Morocco must never accept a world where it is forced to present daily credentials to a lobby that sees the kingdom merely as Israel's backyard. The premise that Moroccan diplomats must sacrifice their dignity and independence to appease those who mistake normalization for submission is beyond the pale. Morocco established diplomatic relations with Israel as a sovereign choice, not as an invitation to foreign control. The country's balanced approach to the Middle East – supporting Palestinian rights while engaging with Israel – reflects its independent judgment, not a position to be dictated by external actors. It is a stance shaped by Morocco's deliberate distancing from the political entanglements of the Mashriq, as the state focuses its strategic horizon on Africa. Morocco's diplomatic relations are sovereign decisions, not concessions to be micromanaged by external interests. The nation's foreign policy isn't up for auction to the highest bidder or the loudest bully. As Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita once wisely observed, we should not be 'Palestinians more than Palestinians themselves,' and it must be added, nor should we be 'Israelis more than Israelis themselves.' Morocco's diplomatic strength lies precisely in its measured independence, its ability to speak with all sides while surrendering to none. Morocco's strength lies in its balanced approach, its independent voice, and its refusal to be anyone's puppet. The attack on Ambassador El Amrani is a test case – if it succeeds, it will embolden further encroachments on Moroccan sovereignty. Today, outside forces dictate diplomatic appointments; tomorrow, they'll dictate foreign policy entirely. Today they demand control over Morocco's diplomatic appointments; tomorrow they'll demand control over its educational curriculum, media, and domestic policy. This cancer of foreign interference will metastasize if not aggressively confronted. This insidious erosion of independence must be recognized and resisted. Support for Ambassador El Amrani and Lamrabet must be unequivocal in the face of this disgraceful smear campaign. More importantly, Morocco's inalienable right to determine its own foreign policy must be defended against any form of external coercion or blackmail. The lobbyists have shown their hand. They don't want partnership; they want vassalage. They don't seek normalization; they demand capitulation. For these self-appointed inquisitors, normalization was never the goal – it was merely the foot in the door. What they truly seek is the annihilation of Morocco's will, its transformation into a pliant satellite state that reflexively supports every Israeli action regardless of its moral or legal implications. For them, recognition isn't enough – only absolute fealty will suffice. This is the line that must not be crossed. Morocco's diplomatic independence is non-negotiable. The nation's sovereignty is not for sale. And those who attempt to dictate foreign policy through intimidation and character assassination should be recognized for what they are: enemies of Morocco's national interest masquerading as friends. Morocco will not allow self-interested operatives to hijack its foreign policy or bully its representatives. Its sovereignty is beyond negotiation, its independence is beyond purchase, and its diplomats deserve far more than to be dragged before modern-day inquisitions by those who confuse alliance with dominion. The wolves have shown their teeth. Now Morocco must show its spine. This is where the line must be drawn – not just for El Amrani and Lamrabet, but for Morocco's place in the world as a sovereign nation that charts its own course.
Morocco World
5 hours ago
- Morocco World
Palestinians Flee Gaza Genocide, Swim to Ceuta from Morocco
Marrakech – Palestinian refugees fleeing the genocide in Gaza have begun arriving in Ceuta by swimming from Morocco. According to Spanish outlet The Objective, three Palestinians have recently reached the Spanish-controlled enclave after crossing the maritime border, seeking asylum and safety from the ongoing atrocities in their homeland. The influx of swimmers trying to reach Ceuta's shores has intensified since late July, making the Spanish enclave the latest front where migration from Morocco continues to increase. In response to this sharp spike in irregular migration attempts, Moroccan and Spanish authorities have significantly ramped up their joint security operations in recent days, as reported by El Mundo. The Spanish outlet reports that Morocco has deployed an unprecedented array of ground and maritime resources along its northern coastline, focusing on intercepting makeshift boats and preventing migrants – many of them unaccompanied minors – from reaching the Spanish enclave. While arrivals to the Canary Islands have begun to slow following agreements between the Spanish government and Mauritania, migratory pressure remains constant in Ceuta. According to the latest figures from the Spanish Ministry of Interior, 1,452 people entered Ceuta by land from January to July – a 7.2% increase compared to last year. These entries occurred via the border fence and through the breakwaters at Tarajal and Benzú. In just the last two weeks of this period, 361 people crossed into the Spanish-controlled territory. La Guardia Civil sources explain that official statistics don't fully capture the continuous attempts to enter the Moroccan Spanish-controlled city by sea. These maritime crossing attempts are, however, documented in internal reports accessible to the government delegation. This past Sunday's early morning hours saw one of the nights with the most attempts to cross into Spain. The journey migrants undertake is increasingly reckless. Swimmers only launch into the water when there's an easterly wind and dense fog covering the coast, conditions that favor their arrival. To avoid detection by La Guardia Civil, migrants are venturing farther out to sea rather than following the coastline near the breakwaters, putting their lives at serious risk. Their only lifesaving devices are tiny floats or vehicle tire inner tubes. At least 16 people have lost their lives in waters near the breakwaters this year, indicating the humanitarian tragedy unfolding in Ceuta. Ceuta's intense migratory summer The migrant population at Ceuta's Temporary Immigration Detention Center (CETI) reflects diverse nationalities beyond Moroccans, including Algerians, sub-Saharan Africans, Pakistanis, Afghans, Bangladeshis, Colombians, and Palestinians who have requested asylum in Spain. The Palestinian refugees are specifically fleeing the Gaza genocide, desperately seeking sanctuary on European soil. Just this Saturday, seven more Moroccan minors entered Ceuta by swimming from Morocco, adding to the intense migratory pressure the enclave has experienced since the beginning of summer. This occurred amid a severely overwhelmed reception system. According to data provided by the Government of Ceuta, the minors' area currently houses more than 480 unaccompanied foreign minors, despite having an optimal capacity of only 132 places. Weather conditions, especially the dense fog recorded in the early morning hours, have been crucial in facilitating these crossing attempts. Poor visibility combined with calm seas provides migrants with an opportunity to jump into the water and reach the Ceuta coast. On Saturday, fog and calm seas led dozens of people to attempt to reach the city through the maritime border at Tarajal. Local authorities anticipate that the current trend of maritime entries, favored by climate conditions and the proximity of the Moroccan coast, will continue in the coming weeks, while reception capacity remains at its limit without sufficient structural reinforcements. Read also: Over 80 Irregular Immigrants Swim to Ceuta in Summer's Largest Irregular Migration Wave
Morocco World
7 hours ago
- Morocco World
India's INS Tamal Concludes Exercise with Royal Moroccan Navy Ship Mohammed VI
Marrakech – India's newest stealth frigate, INS Tamal, completed a three-day port visit to Casablanca from August 6-9. This marks the third Indian naval vessel to visit Morocco in the past two years, in a sign of the growing maritime cooperation between the two countries. Commissioned in Russia on July 1, INS Tamal is returning to India via multiple European and Asian ports as part of India's broader maritime diplomacy efforts. During the port call, the ship's crew engaged in various activities aimed at strengthening bilateral naval relations. These included professional discussions with senior Moroccan military officials, cross-deck visits, sports competitions, yoga sessions, and cultural exchanges. The Indian Ministry of Defense stated: 'The port call at Casablanca is indicative of the importance India attaches to its relations with Morocco and the endeavour to strengthen the growing defence cooperation between the two nations. It also provided an opportunity for both navies to share best practices and explore new avenues of cooperation.' Key interactions occurred with Captain Rachid Sadrhazi, Commander of the 1st Naval Base; Captain-Major Hasan Akouli, Commander of the Central Maritime Sector; Brigadier General Jamal Kaztouf, Delegated Commander of Weapons for the Casablanca Area; and Rear Admiral Mohamed Tahin, Rear-Admiral Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Navy. Indian Ambassador to Morocco, Sanjay Rana, visited the ship, where he engaged with both Moroccan naval leadership and the Indian crew. As INS Tamal departed Casablanca, it conducted a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with Royal Moroccan Navy Ship Mohammed VI, demonstrating operational coordination between the two naval forces. This port visit builds on already substantial New Delhi-Rabat relations. Trade between the countries has shown steady growth, with India exporting $101 million to Morocco in March, while importing $46 million during the same period. The bilateral relationship underwent a profound diplomatic leap following King Mohammed VI's historic 2015 visit to India during the 3rd India-Africa Forum Summit Since then, Indian business presence in Morocco has expanded considerably, with Indian companies operating across various sectors, including automotive, IT, green technologies, and hospitality. The number of Indian companies in Morocco has grown from 12 to 40 in recent years. Notable Indian firms operating in the North African country include Tata Motors, Sterling and Wilson, Larsen and Toubro, Sumilon, and Furnace Fabrica. Defense cooperation now forms a critical axis of bilateral engagement. In 2024, Morocco received 90 military trucks from India's Tata Group. The same year, Morocco's military and TATA Advanced Systems Limited formed a partnership to domestically produce the WhAP 8×8 armored combat vehicle. INS Tamal will continue its journey home, making additional port calls that further India's diplomatic and maritime engagement across Europe and Asia. Tags: casablanca portMorocco and Indiaroyal moroccan navy
