Rabat — A Moroccan youth delegation visited Israel last weekend, sparking controversy as the trip took place during Israel’s continued genocidal assaults and starvation on Gaza.
The Israeli Atidna Association in Haifa reportedly hosted the group.
“We welcomed a distinguished delegation from the Kingdom of Morocco to the offices of Atidna Association in Haifa,” the association said in a statement.
“The visit aimed to learn about the association’s work model and its deep impact in building a leadership generation within the Arab community in Israel.”
The association added that during the meeting, they “reviewed milestones from our journey, achievements we are proud of, and initiatives that have made a real difference in the lives of thousands of young people.”
A commentator lamented the group over the visit to Israel on X, saying: “A Moroccan youth delegation learns ‘leadership’ from children killers in Haifa, meanwhile Gaza is being bombarded.”
The visit comes as the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) maintain a brutal siege on the genocide-torn Gaza, defying international pressure.
This normalization effort takes place as Israel’s genocide in Gaza continues and IOF-induced famine is catastrophically spreading with increasing brutality.
Critics described the visitors as “new normalizers” who received a warm welcome at the Haifa-based association.
According to the statement, the meeting reportedly included discussions about “the importance of empowering youth and connecting Arab communities worldwide through education, learning, and social innovation.” The association called the visit “an inspiring visit that carries messages of hope, partnership, and a shared future.”
Strong opposition at home
Moroccan visits to Israel, especially after the genocide on Gaza, face widespread rejection and strong condemnation from anti-normalization groups in Morocco and organizations supporting the Palestinian cause.
Opponents of these visits consider such steps a betrayal of Palestinian struggles and a provocation to Moroccan feelings.
Anti-normalization activists argue these visits do not fall under dialogue or cultural exchange. Instead, they believe such trips promote normalization and polish Israel’s image despite its ongoing criminal genocide on Gaza.
