Moroccan opposition figure Nabila Mounib, a deputy from the Unified Socialist Party (PSU), has raised concerns about Israel's alleged plans to divide Morocco into six states. Her comments come as Morocco and Israel have recently elevated their diplomatic representations to the level of embassies, with an exchange of ambassadors. This development occurs just days before Morocco's legislative elections, scheduled for September 23.
Mounib, a vocal critic of normalization with Israel, expressed her concerns in a statement to the Moroccan website Hespress. She emphasized that Moroccans are free men and women who will not allow anyone to decide their fate. The deputy called on Moroccans to elect representatives who can address the challenges posed by Israel's alleged plans. Mounib also denounced a proposal to grant Israeli citizens Moroccan nationality.
This is not the first time Mounib has made serious allegations about the actions of those promoting normalization with Israel in Morocco. In May, she revealed that pressure was being exerted on deputies to naturalize Israelis and criminalize anti-Semitism. Her comments were made in the context of Moroccan citizens being expelled from their homes and lands, which were claimed by descendants of Jews who emigrated to Israel in the 1960s.
Mounib has also been critical of the appointment of a Jewish Moroccan to head the administration of Wakfs, citing his known ties to a high-ranking Israeli official. The appointee is reportedly the brother of the Israeli Minister of Interior. In February 2024, Mounib denounced Israeli attempts to fuel animosity between Algerian and Moroccan supporters and internet users.
Mounib has called for the construction of a greater Maghreb and for a united front south of the Mediterranean. She emphasized that the war presents no benefits and that the two countries should leverage their complementary resources. Her comments have sparked attacks and a smear campaign by those close to the Moroccan government.
The recent elevation of diplomatic ties between Morocco and Israel has raised concerns among some Moroccans. The two countries established diplomatic relations in 2020, following the Abraham Accords. Critics argue that normalization with Israel may come at the expense of Morocco's long-standing support for the Palestinian cause.
Mounib's warnings against Israeli plans to divide Morocco have sparked a national debate. Her comments have been met with both support and criticism, reflecting the complexities of Morocco's relations with Israel and the ongoing controversy surrounding normalization. The issue is likely to remain a contentious topic in Moroccan politics.
Key points
- Moroccan deputy Nabila Mounib claims Israel seeks to divide Morocco into six states.
- Mounib denounced a proposal to grant Israeli citizens Moroccan nationality.
- The issue has sparked a national debate in Morocco, reflecting the complexities of the country's relations with Israel.
