From the Al-Quds Committee to a Stability Force: Backgrounds of Moroccan Engagement in Gaza

Morocco has formalized its commitment to the Palestinian cause by signing a legal framework for its participation in an international stability force in Gaza. This significant step marks a transition from Morocco's historical political and diplomatic engagement to a tangible field presence, positioning the kingdom as a partner in resolving one of the world's most challenging geopolitical situations.

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It constitutes an announcement from Rabat of the transformation of its historical commitment, politically and diplomatically, into practical action and field presence, making it a partner in resolving the most difficult geographical issue on Earth.

The agreement, signed following a visit by Nikolay Mladenov, the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, and preceded by the deployment of Moroccan experts to Israel for discussions on the second phase of a ceasefire plan, underscores Morocco's established credibility. This credibility stems from decades of balanced and consistent work on the Palestinian issue, acknowledged by Palestinian officials themselves.

Morocco's financial contributions to the "Peace Council" in Gaza and its signing of the legal framework for the stability force are rooted in its diplomatic achievements. The country has consistently advocated for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders and the two-state solution. Furthermore, under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, who chairs the Al-Quds Committee, Morocco has led humanitarian efforts, including opening unprecedented humanitarian corridors and coordinating relief operations for civilians in Gaza during recent conflicts.

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The agreement... is based on a self-accumulated legitimacy by the Kingdom of Morocco through decades of balanced and consistent work on the Palestinian file, as testified by Palestinian officials themselves.

The Moroccan participation in the Gaza stability force is underpinned by clear international legitimacy and legal frameworks that define its scope and responsibilities. This engagement aligns with a multilateral commitment to end the conflict and Morocco's belief that security is a prerequisite for any political solution. The article refutes notions of a "new occupation" or guardianship, emphasizing that Morocco's contribution involves training the Palestinian police force, assisting displaced persons, and securing relief and reconstruction efforts, rather than imposing political will.

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Morocco has not sent a military battalion to Gaza to impose a specific political will, but rather sent experts to train the new Palestinian police force and contribute to the return of the displaced and the securing of relief and reconstruction operations.