Israel and Morocco Agree to Deepen Diplomatic Ties, Open Embassies

Israel and Morocco have agreed to strengthen their diplomatic relations, including the opening of embassies and the appointment of ambassadors, according to a statement released by the official Arabic X account of the Israeli government. The agreement was reached on Wednesday in New York during a summit marking the sixth anniversary of the Abraham Accords, mediated by U.S. Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz.

The three nations, the U.S., Israel, and Morocco, reaffirmed their commitment to a series of steps aimed at advancing bilateral ties. These include enhancing diplomatic relations, establishing diplomatic missions as embassies, and appointing ambassadors. The statement also indicated that Israel and Morocco have agreed to finalize two economic agreements by the end of the current year to bolster commercial and economic relations, specifically focusing on investment protection and the prevention of double taxation.

Furthermore, the committee agreed to expand flight routes to include services operated by Moroccan airlines, a move slated for implementation by year-end. Regular visits by senior officials between Israel and Morocco were also agreed upon.

Israeli Foreign Minister G Gideon Saar stated, "The friendship between the Moroccan people and the Jewish people has deep roots and a glorious history. The declaration we signed details practical ways to upgrade the ties between Israel and Morocco for the benefit of both peoples, and we will work diligently to implement it." Morocco was one of four countries, alongside the UAE, Bahrain, and Sudan, that moved to normalize relations with Israel in 2020 under the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords.