Gaza aid : Morocco stands alone with direct on-the-ground support

Since the beginning of the year, Morocco has stepped up its humanitarian efforts to support the people of Gaza. The latest initiative, 180 tons of aid, was ordered by King Mohammed VI on July 30.

What sets Morocco apart from other international actors is its ability to deliver aid directly to Palestinians, with the approval of the Israeli government. Rabat resumed diplomatic relations with Tel Aviv on December 10, 2020.

As in March, the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) have set up air bridges to Israel, where the aid is then transported by land through the Kerem Shalom crossing, under Israeli control, to reach Gaza.

Morocco’s humanitarian approach is also unique in how the aid is distributed. The supplies are handed over to the Palestinian Red Crescent, under the supervision of the Palestinian Authority led by Mahmoud Abbas, and distributed to beneficiaries away from areas under direct Israeli fire. It's worth noting that since 2006, Gaza has been controlled by the Islamist group Hamas, an authority Morocco does not recognize.

In parallel, the Bayt Mal Al Qods Acharif Agency, affiliated with the Al-Quds Committee chaired by King Mohammed VI, has expanded its operations in Gaza since October 2023. The agency regularly carries out aid distribution efforts, providing food and blankets to residents. These operations are conducted safely, with Palestinian agents sometimes delivering the aid directly to recipients.

Last May in Rabat, Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita stressed that «Morocco's support for the Palestinian people is neither occasional nor driven by political posturing».