In October 2016, the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces took part in «North Thunder», a joint military exercise held in Saudi Arabia. Former Prime Minister Abdelilah Benkirane attended the maneuvers’ closing ceremony. This time Morocco has shunned naval drills hosted currently by Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Prince Turki bin Bindar was deported by Morocco in 2015 to Saudi Arabia, through an Interpol warrant, confirmed the Moroccan Ministry of Justice. Commenting on the decision, Interpol says it hasn’t issued a red notice or diffusion for the Saudi official.
While Arab allies voiced their support for Saudi Arabia amid the Khashoggi death allegations, Morocco has decided to remain silent. Meanwhile, Western governments urged Riyadh to give more explanations over the death of the journalist.
Morocco' Justice Ministry confirmed on Friday the deportation of Saudi prince Turki bin Bindar, denying extrajudicial allegations suggested by international reports.