Tens of thousands took to the streets of Rabat on Sunday in one of the largest pro-Palestinian rallies seen in the Moroccan capital this year. The demonstration followed the resumption of Israeli military operations in Gaza, which ended a two-month ceasefire and sparked a wave of condemnation across the region.
Organised by the opposition-led Justice and Development Party coalition, the march filled Mohammed V Avenue in the heart of the city. Protesters waved Palestinian flags, chanted in unison, and beat drums as they moved past the national parliament, demanding an end to Israeli attacks and justice for Palestinians.
Images of prominent Palestinian figures, including a banner bearing the face of the late Hamas commander Yahya Sinwar, were held aloft as demonstrators voiced outrage over the rising death toll in Gaza.
‘Genocide’ Allegations and a Mounting Death Toll
Among the most striking visuals were children carrying mock shrouds stained with red, representing the lives of young Palestinians lost since the conflict reignited. Many demonstrators referred to Israel’s military campaign as “genocide,” calling attention to the extensive civilian casualties.
Gaza’s health authorities report that more than 1,330 people have been killed since Israel resumed its offensive on 18 March. The total number of deaths since the start of the war has now reached 50,695, according to figures released by the territory’s health ministry.
Calls to End Ties with Israel
Chants of “The people want the liberation of Palestine!” echoed through the streets, accompanied by calls for an immediate end to the siege on Gaza and the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid. Protesters also directed criticism at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, labelling him a war criminal.
In a recurring theme during recent protests across North Africa, participants demanded that Morocco cut diplomatic ties with Israel. The two countries re-established formal relations in 2020 under the U.S.-brokered Abraham Accords—a move that has faced ongoing resistance from segments of the Moroccan public.
Official Silence on Bilateral Ties
While Rabat has issued repeated calls for a lasting ceasefire and the protection of civilian lives in Gaza, the government has remained silent on whether it plans to reassess its relationship with Tel Aviv.
Sunday’s rally underscored growing public frustration and highlighted the divide between the official diplomatic stance and widespread grassroots opposition to Israeli policy in Palestine.
As Israel’s military campaign continues, further demonstrations are expected, reflecting not only solidarity with Gaza but also rising regional tension over Morocco’s foreign policy orientation.