The Hague, 23/02/2024
Morocco has once again underscored its unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause, emphasizing the crucial role played by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who serves as the Chairperson of the Al-Quds Committee. The commitment was highlighted during the ongoing hearings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), where the Kingdom is seeking an advisory opinion on the legal consequences arising from Israel’s policies and practices in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem.
Represented by its ambassador to The Hague, Mohamed Basri, Morocco actively participated in the ICJ hearings from February 19 to 29, demonstrating a tangible show of solidarity with Palestine. The Moroccan ambassador attended the oral presentation of Palestine on February 19, standing alongside the Palestinian delegation led by Riyad Al Maliki, the Palestinian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates.
Morocco’s presence at the ICJ is not merely symbolic; the Kingdom has submitted a comprehensive written plea to the Court, reflecting its dedication to addressing the complex issues surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In its plea, Morocco reiterates its determination to employ all legal means at its disposal to safeguard the legal, historical, political, and spiritual status of Jerusalem as a city of peace and a meeting place for people of all monotheistic religions.
The Kingdom’s commitment extends to actively respecting international law and promoting peace in the Middle East. Morocco advocates for a just, comprehensive, and lasting solution based on the principle of two states: an independent Palestinian state within the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, coexisting peacefully with the State of Israel. This solution aligns with international legality, United Nations resolutions, and the Arab Peace Initiative.
Morocco’s plea draws from the principles established in the Appeal of Al-Quds/Jerusalem, signed in 2019 between HM King Mohammed VI and Pope Francis. The document emphasizes the importance of preserving Jerusalem as a common heritage for humanity and a symbol of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
Furthermore, Morocco’s plea addresses the international consensus on the legal status of Israeli settlements in certain parts of the occupied Palestinian territory, stating that they pose a significant obstacle to peace and threaten the viability of a two-state solution. The Kingdom advocates for a resolution of the conflict through dialogue and negotiation, emphasizing the importance of adhering to UN negotiation frameworks and relevant resolutions, such as Security Council Resolutions 242 and 338.
The Kingdom’s plea emphasizes that the resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains pivotal for lasting peace and stability in the Middle East. King Mohammed VI’s leadership within the United Nations, where he chairs the Al-Quds Committee, reflects Morocco’s commitment to advancing dialogue and cooperation on this critical issue.
Morocco concludes its plea by recalling His Majesty the King’s message on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People in November 2022. The King expressed concern about the political deadlock between the Palestinian and Israeli sides but encouraged positive signs and commendable initiatives to rebuild confidence and launch meaningful negotiations for a just, comprehensive, and lasting solution in accordance with international legitimacy resolutions and the two-state solution. Morocco’s active involvement in the ICJ proceedings reinforces its dedication to achieving a sustainable resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
