Algiers – Veteran Algerian diplomat Lakhdar Brahimi has issued a stark warning regarding what he describes as the successful infiltration of Morocco by Israel, and the potential for this development to further destabilize the Maghreb region.
The former Algerian Foreign Minister and UN Special Envoy asserted that Israel has managed to establish a significant foothold within Morocco, raising concerns about the implications for the entire North African region.
In an interview, Brahimi challenged the notion that Algeria is an obstacle to the formation of a unified Arab Maghreb, arguing instead that Morocco’s normalization of relations with Israel is complicating the regional landscape rather than simplifying it. He highlighted the stark contrast between the Moroccan public’s sentiment and the actions of its government, noting that Moroccans of all ages are demonstrating against Israel, even as the Moroccan government continues to normalize relations with the country, despite ongoing concerns about its policies towards Palestinians.
“Yes, it is a governmental choice, but does it serve the interests of the Arab Maghreb?” Brahimi questioned. “Does it facilitate the Maghreb situation or complicate it further?” He emphasized that Israel’s growing influence in Morocco poses a real threat to the region’s stability.
Brahimi also commented on the stalled Arab Maghreb Union, stating that the project suffered from fundamental flaws from its inception. He explained that the three main Maghreb countries – Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco – failed to effectively organize themselves and build a framework for effective cooperation.
Addressing the broader global landscape, Brahimi expressed a slightly more optimistic outlook than in previous years regarding the possibility of a third world war. He believes that major powers – the United States, China, and Russia – are not seeking direct confrontation. However, he cautioned that this does not necessarily mean these powers have chosen cooperation and mutual openness, adding that the world is witnessing the emergence of a multipolar system whose final contours are not yet clear.
