Tens of Thousands Rally in Rabat Against Israeli Actions in Gaza

Rabat, The Gulf Observer: Tens of thousands of Moroccans flooded the streets of Rabat today in a mass protest denouncing what they described as ongoing genocide committed by Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) against unarmed civilians in Gaza. The demonstration, marked by widespread participation and fervent calls for action, was organized by the Moroccan Front for Support of Palestine.

Protesters from across the country, including men, women, and children, gathered in solidarity with the Palestinian people. Many wore the symbolic Palestinian kuffieh and carried Palestinian flags, chanting anti-Israeli slogans and expressing outrage at the continued violence in Gaza. Demonstrators also directed criticism toward the United States for its support of Israel.

Banners displayed during the protest carried messages such as “Don’t stop talking about Palestine” and “Free Palestine,” underscoring the demonstrators’ demands for justice and accountability. Calls were renewed for the Moroccan government to fully sever diplomatic ties with Israel, a position that has gained traction among the Moroccan public.

Morocco re-established relations with Israel in December 2020 as part of the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords. While the Moroccan government maintains that its stance in support of the Palestinian cause remains unchanged, a significant portion of the population continues to oppose the normalization of ties.

A recent public opinion poll reveals deep concern over the developments in Gaza and strong support for the Palestinian cause. Approximately 33% of Moroccan respondents believe the October 7 attack by Hamas was a reaction to the continued Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, while 17% considered it a defensive act to protect Al-Aqsa Mosque.

The same poll found that 68% of Moroccans reject comparisons between Hamas and ISIS, asserting that Hamas is entirely different from the terrorist organization. Only 4% believe the two groups are similar.

Regular demonstrations have been held throughout Morocco, particularly in cities like Tangier, reflecting sustained public anger and solidarity with Palestinians. Today’s gathering in Rabat is among the largest seen in recent months and signals growing domestic pressure on Moroccan authorities to reassess diplomatic relations with Israel amidst the escalating crisis in Gaza.