Protests have intensified across Morocco as citizens continue to express anger over the government’s decision to normalize relations with Israel. The demonstrations, ongoing for over a year, have highlighted a growing divide between government policies and public opinion.
In a recent protest at one of Morocco’s major ports, 34-year-old agricultural engineer Ismail Lghazaoui marched among crowds waving Palestinian flags and chanting against the arrival of a ship believed to be carrying military equipment from the United States. The protestors held signs reading “Reject the ship,” referring to cargo linked to military aircraft production.
Activists are pressuring port authorities to block vessels suspected of transporting military goods destined for Israel. Their campaign has frequently focused on shipping company Maersk, which is involved in transporting components used in U.S. fighter jets under a defense program supporting weapons sales to U.S. allies.
Lghazaoui previously spent time in prison due to his involvement in a similar boycott campaign but remains undeterred. He is among several activists facing legal consequences for publicly criticizing Morocco’s relationship with Israel.
During a rally in Casablanca, Lghazaoui and other protestors were reportedly assaulted by plainclothes officers as they tried to approach the U.S. Consulate. After sharing a post on social media critical of Maersk, he was arrested and charged with incitement. His original one-year sentence was later reduced, and he served two months in prison followed by two months on parole.
“They try to silence people,” Lghazaoui said. “They were using me to discourage others or make them afraid.”
