Morocco and Israel formally agreed to elevate their respective diplomatic representations to the rank of embassies, with the exchange of ambassadors taking place on Wednesday, September 16. This significant diplomatic development saw both nations establish full embassies. This move, however, coincided with strong accusations from Nabila Mounib, a prominent Moroccan opposition figure, who alleged that Israel was actively plotting to divide Morocco. Mounib specifically cited a proposal to "give nationality to Zionists" as key evidence supporting this alleged scheme.
Mounib's Core Allegations
Nabila Mounib, a prominent Moroccan opposition figure and a deputy of the Unified Socialist Party (PSU), articulated her concerns by stating that Israelis have a project to "divide Morocco into six states," declaring unequivocally, "Israël veut diviser le Maroc en six Etats." Mounib further claimed that "Rien de bon ne peut nous venir des criminels sionistes," asserting that Moroccans are "des hommes libres qui savent être solidaires et défendre leur pays avec tous les moyens." She emphasized her resolve by stating, "Nous n’allons laisser personne décider de notre sort." In May, Mounib revealed that considerable pressure was exerted on deputies to "naturaliser les sionistes et criminaliser l’antisémitisme," and she questioned the implications, asking, "Comment assumer nos responsabilités devant le peuple marocain qui refuse cela ? Ça va venir et ça fait peur." Mounib also advocated for building the Greater Maghreb and forming a "common front in the South of the Mediterranean" to "arrêter les catastrophes."
Political Context and Timing
Nabila Mounib, a deputy of the Unified Socialist Party (PSU), made her accusations ahead of the Moroccan legislative elections, which are scheduled for September 23. The timing of her statements is notable, coinciding with a period where she has previously voiced concerns regarding perceived Israeli influence. In November 2023, Mounib had requested explanations from the Minister of Religious Affairs concerning the appointment of a Moroccan Jew, reportedly with ties to an Israeli official, to lead the administration of Wakfs. This earlier incident shows her ongoing focus on the issue of Israeli involvement in Moroccan affairs. Mounib maintains that "Rien de bon ne peut nous venir des criminels sionistes," reiterating her belief that "Israël veut diviser le Maroc en six Etats." She has also affirmed, "Mais les Marocains sont des hommes libres qui savent être solidaires et défendre leur pays avec tous les moyens. Nous n’allons laisser personne décider de notre sort."
Broader Vision and Opposition
Nabila Mounib also asserted that international law explicitly prohibits granting nationality to individuals who have participated in war against "our brothers." Her concerns extend to broader regional relations, as she publicly denounced Israelis in February 2024 for allegedly inciting animosity between Algerian and Moroccan supporters and netizens. Mounib referred to these actors as "Zionist electronic flies." Looking ahead to the legislative elections, Mounib urged voters to elect individuals "who have the level" to serve effectively in the upcoming legislative elections. She stated that such a choice was necessary to "stop catastrophes" and ensure the nation's well-being. Mounib's calls for building the Greater Maghreb and forming a "common front in the South of the Mediterranean" further highlight her vision for regional cooperation and stability in the face of perceived external threats.