King Mohammed VI: Ongoing Support for the Palestinian Cause and Diplomatic Efforts for Peace
A Consistent Commitment to the Palestinian Cause
Since ascending the throne, King Mohammed VI, as Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, has tirelessly worked to support the Palestinian cause and uphold the rights of the Palestinian people. This steadfast commitment was evident during the recent war in Gaza, where the King called for an immediate ceasefire, emphasizing that peace and stability in the region can only be achieved through the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Morocco’s Firm Stance on Palestine
Morocco’s position on the Palestinian cause remains clear and unwavering, as reflected in the King’s initiatives, speeches, and messages. In his Throne Speech on July 29, 2024, King Mohammed VI reaffirmed the centrality of the Palestinian issue in Morocco’s foreign policy. He also addressed Arab and Islamic summits, such as the joint summit in Riyadh (November 11, 2023), the Arab Summit (May 16, 2024), and the International Parliamentary Forum.
In these messages, the King stressed the need for Arab unity to counter the violations in Jerusalem, including attempts to erase its cultural identity and alter its legal status. He also called for the protection of Palestinian civilians and an end to military escalation, emphasizing the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law.
A Historical and Humanitarian Vision
At the International Parliamentary Forum held in Marrakech, the King highlighted Morocco’s historical role in promoting religious tolerance and offering refuge to persecuted Muslims and Jews fleeing the Spanish Inquisition in the 15th century. He also recalled his grandfather King Mohammed V’s stance in protecting Moroccan Jews from the Vichy regime during World War II.
Steadfast Support for Gaza
Amid the escalating conflict in Gaza following the events of October 7, King Mohammed VI reaffirmed his support for Palestinians through messages sent to international conferences and forums. These messages included clear criticisms of Israel’s extreme policies and unilateral measures in Jerusalem, warning that such actions block political solutions and escalate tensions in the region.
In a letter to the Chair of the Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, the King held Israel accountable for the escalation due to its systematic policies. He urged the international community to intervene immediately to stop targeting civilians and to create conditions for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state living peacefully alongside Israel.
The Palestinian Cause at the Heart of Morocco’s Strategy
During the Islamic Summit, King Mohammed VI emphasized that the war in Gaza, described as a “war of vengeance,” reinforces Morocco’s determination to place the Palestinian cause at the core of achieving a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. These messages reflect Morocco’s consistent dedication to supporting the Palestinian cause, whether through diplomatic efforts or on-the-ground initiatives to protect Jerusalem and strengthen Palestinian resilience.
