The diplomatic approach of the king of Morocco towards Algeria is characterized by an ‘outstretched hand’ followed by aggressive attacks from the royal palace’s communication channels.
Whenever Mohamed VI attempts to ease tensions between the two Maghreb neighbors, the response is met with hostility.
It is not that the king lacks control over his press and diplomacy, but rather it is a deliberate strategy employed by Morocco to present itself favorably on the global stage while ensuring that tensions with Algeria persist through unofficial means.
This strategy, although transparent to many, mirrors the tactics utilized by Israel, Morocco’s newfound ally in the Middle East.
Following the adoption of a UN Security Council resolution on Western Sahara on October 31, the king delivered a speech that Moroccan propaganda swiftly interpreted as a ‘victory’ for its autonomy plan.
Mohamed VI’s Call for Dialogue
In his address, Mohamed VI emphasized the need for ‘frank and responsible dialogue; a fraternal and sincere dialogue on the various outstanding issues between the two countries.’
‘I have consistently extended my hand to our brothers in Algeria,’ he reiterated. This public facade portrays Algeria as resistant to dialogue, while concealing Morocco’s hidden expansionist agenda.
Despite the king’s repeated calls for dialogue, they have consistently been followed by aggressive actions against Algeria, as seen in the recent wave of attacks from Moroccan media outlets.
One such attack openly lays claim to a portion of Algerian territory, asserting that the current borders were arbitrarily drawn by colonial powers and continue to fuel tensions between neighboring states.
Morocco – Algeria: A Facade of Diplomacy
Utilizing the services of extremist historian Bernard Lugan, Moroccan media outlets propagate the narrative that Algeria was created at the expense of Morocco, emphasizing the need for Morocco to reclaim its ‘lost territories.’
This propaganda campaign coincides with US efforts to mediate between the two countries and resolve the Western Sahara conflict permanently.
By aligning with the US and normalizing relations with Israel, Morocco seeks to present itself as a peace-seeking nation while shifting blame onto Algeria for ongoing tensions.
Despite the calls for ‘dialogue’ and ‘reconciliation,’ Algeria has chosen to disregard these overtures, recognizing them as mere rhetoric.
The Israeli Parallel
Morocco’s tactics mirror those of Israel, portraying a facade of peace and diplomacy while engaging in aggressive actions against its neighbors.
By questioning borders and making territorial claims, Morocco undermines the stability of the region and reveals its true intentions regarding Western Sahara.
Algeria continues to face hostility from Morocco, which undermines any genuine efforts for peace or autonomy in the region.
Ultimately, Morocco’s strategy echoes that of Israel, attempting to present a peaceful image to the world while pursuing its own interests at the expense of regional stability.
As the old adage goes, ‘you cannot fool everyone all the time…’