Morocco: Benkirane reiterates opposition to normalisation with Israel

Moroccan Justice and Development Party Secretary-General Abdelilah Benkirane has reiterated his opposition to normalising relations with Israel, amid reports that Morocco and Israel are considering upgrading their diplomatic representation.

The party’s general secretariat issued the statement on Thursday after an urgent meeting held remotely to discuss the reports.

The party said it remains opposed to normalisation and all relations and agreements with Israel, referring to previous statements and its election programme.

Benkirane called on party members and activists not to engage with reports circulating inside and outside Morocco about the possible diplomatic upgrade, urging them instead to focus on the election campaign and promoting the party’s positions and programme.

The party said its priorities should include citizens’ concerns, combating corruption and conflicts of interest, defending Morocco’s national interests and territorial integrity, and maintaining its support for the Palestinian cause.