Morocco at a Crossroads: King Mohammed VI Faces Popular Uprising over Support for the Zionist Entity
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- Morocco is currently experiencing an unprecedented period of turmoil under the reign of King Mohammed VI. The King’s decision to support the Zionist entity in its crimes against the Palestinian people, backed by the monarchy, has triggered a wave of internal dissent among segments of the population aligned with the causes of the Arab and Islamic nations. This dissent has been met with a harsh crackdown, raising concerns about the future of the royal regime in a country aspiring towards democracy.
The normalization of relations with the Zionist entity, announced in December 2020, has been deemed a betrayal by a segment strongly committed to the Palestinian cause. The monarchy, a key pillar of power in Morocco, played a decisive role in adopting this policy. By endorsing the King’s decision, Mohammed VI not only solidified his position but also contributed to shaping the kingdom’s foreign policy.
The government’s response to pro-Palestinian protests has been marked by severe repression, with security forces often acting on direct orders from the monarchy. They have used tear gas, water cannons, and occasionally rubber bullets to disperse crowds. Reports have emerged of arbitrary arrests and violent treatment of protesters.
Protesters, like Amina, a student from Rabat, recount the brutality of the interventions: “We were peaceful, but the police accused us without warning. I saw injured people, and some were arrested without cause. It’s a terrifying situation.”
This crackdown has had a profound impact on Moroccan civil society. Human rights organizations have condemned violations of basic freedoms and the democratic setback, raising questions about the monarchy’s future. Fear has started to emerge among Moroccans, but so has a growing determination among some to continue the struggle for their rights.
Internationally, Morocco’s support for the Zionist entity has reshaped its position in the Arab and global spheres. The decision not only strained relations with other Arab nations but also highlighted Morocco’s strategic alliances with Western powers.
While Morocco was once a major player in the Arab world, supporting Palestine, it now risks isolation within the Arab League, jeopardizing its historical relationships and regional alliances.
The current unrest within Moroccan society has sparked a debate about the monarchy as a system of governance. The ongoing crisis has reignited discussions about the significance of the royal regime in Morocco. While some see it as a pillar of stability, others view it as an obstacle to the full expression of popular will and the emergence of genuine democracy.
King Mohammed VI’s decision to support the criminal entity, despite popular opposition, raises questions about the legitimacy of the monarchy. Will it persist in governance and ignore the aspirations of its people? The trajectory of Morocco’s future hangs in the balance.
