Israel and Morocco Agree to Elevate Diplomatic Ties, Expand Cooperation

Israeli Foreign Minister Gidon Saar met in New York with his Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita, and U.S. Representative to the UN Mike Waltz for a trilateral meeting aimed at advancing Israeli-Moroccan relations. A separate one-on-one meeting between Saar and Bourita was also scheduled.

During the talks, the three nations affirmed their commitment to concrete steps for developing bilateral ties, including upgrading diplomatic representation from liaison offices to full embassies with appointed ambassadors. Both Israel and Morocco agreed to finalize agreements on investment protection and the prevention of double taxation by the end of 2026, a move expected to boost mutual investments and economic ties.

Discussions also covered expanding direct flights between the two countries, with Moroccan airlines set to join existing routes. The first new flights are anticipated within weeks. Furthermore, both sides agreed on reciprocal visits by high-ranking officials in the coming months.

Israel expressed gratitude to the United States for its role in fostering peace and security, which facilitated the meeting and the ongoing development of relations. The discussions occurred the day after a reception hosted by Mike Waltz to mark the sixth anniversary of the Abraham Accords, attended by representatives from the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Israel, and the U.S.

Foreign Minister Saar stated, "The friendship between the Moroccan and Jewish peoples has deep roots and a rich history. The declaration signed today outlines concrete steps for developing relations between Israel and Morocco for the benefit of both peoples. We intend to work consistently towards its implementation."