Gaza war prompts Arab world support for normalization of ties with Israel to plummet

A report from an Israeli think tank has highlighted a recent opinion poll from Arab Barometer, revealing a sharp decrease in public support of the normalization of relations between Arab states, including Morocco, and Israel, from 31% in 2022 to 13%. The Institute for National Security Studies at Tel Aviv University notes that “marks a significant shift in Morocco, which previously had high levels of support for normalization compared to other Arab countries like Egypt and Jordan.”

The report says the decline is largely caused by perceptions of the war in Gaza. According to Arab Barometer, 26% of Moroccans frequently describe the Gaza conflict as a genoicide, and 14% as a mass killing. Regular demonstrations in support of the Palestinians have taken place in the kingdom since the start of the conflict, with demands to sever ties with Israel.

The INS notes that while foundational aspects of Moroccan Israeli relations like bilateral trade and security ties- have not changed, there has been a negative impact on overt diplomatic ties, official visits and tourism.