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Israeli lobbyist’s campaign challenges Moroccan diplomatic sovereignty
A recent article published on JFEED, a platform focused on "Israel and the Jewish world," has sparked controversy, accusing Morocco’s ambassador to the United States, Youssef El Amrani, and his wife, Asma Lamrabet, of anti-Semitism and alleged diplomatic failures. The piece, authored by Mustapha Ezzarghani, founder of the Moroccan-Israeli Friendship Association (MIFA), has been described by analysts as a calculated attempt to undermine Morocco’s diplomatic sovereignty and pressure the kingdom into submission.
Allegations against Morocco’s ambassador and his wife
Ezzarghani’s article criticizes El Amrani’s role as ambassador, claiming a lack of engagement with Jewish organizations in Washington. He further accuses El Amrani and Lamrabet of harboring anti-Israeli sentiments, branding them as anti-Semitic. These allegations, particularly damaging in the American political sphere, have been dismissed by observers as baseless and politically motivated.
Contrary to these claims, El Amrani has actively fostered Morocco’s Jewish ties since his appointment in October 2023. He has participated in significant events celebrating Moroccan Jewish heritage, including the Hilloula and Mimouna celebrations, and has emphasized Morocco’s commitment to cultural diversity. Lamrabet, recognized as a reformist intellectual and advocate for women’s rights, has also engaged in interfaith dialogue and cultural initiatives, making the accusations against her equally unfounded.
A deeper agenda: External interference in Moroccan policy
Analysts argue that the allegations reflect a broader attempt by certain advocacy groups to interfere in Morocco’s internal affairs. Ezzarghani’s criticism, framed within the context of strengthening Morocco’s ties with Israel and the United States, has been described as foreign interference, seeking to dictate the kingdom’s diplomatic appointments.
The attack challenges Morocco’s sovereignty, as ambassadors are appointed exclusively by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, in accordance with Article 55 of the Moroccan Constitution. By targeting El Amrani, the campaign indirectly challenges the authority of the King and Morocco’s independent foreign policy.
Weaponizing anti-Semitism: A troubling trend
The accusations of anti-Semitism against El Amrani and Lamrabet highlight a growing trend of using such allegations as political weapons. In the American context, these charges carry severe consequences, often damaging reputations and careers. Observers warn that this tactic undermines Morocco’s diplomatic consensus and risks subjecting its foreign policy to external lobbies’ demands.
Ezzarghani’s campaign allegedly stems from personal grievances, including being excluded from the Moroccan embassy’s Throne Day celebration, rather than genuine policy concerns. His actions are seen as part of a larger effort to impose loyalty tests on Morocco’s representatives, demanding not just normalization with Israel but unconditional support.
Implications for Morocco’s sovereignty
This episode underscores the risks of allowing external actors to influence Morocco’s diplomatic affairs. Analysts caution that such campaigns could erode national consensus and compromise Morocco’s decision-making autonomy. By attempting to pressure Morocco into aligning with foreign interests, these efforts challenge the kingdom’s right to independently manage its foreign relations.
The controversy also raises broader questions about freedom of thought and expression, particularly in Washington, where dissenting views on Israel are increasingly met with public condemnation. Morocco’s diplomatic sovereignty, however, remains non-negotiable. Efforts to undermine it through media manipulation or external pressure must be firmly resisted to preserve the kingdom’s independence and dignity on the global stage.