Israel's Deputy Ambassador to Morocco: 'Morocco Values Preserving Jewish Heritage and Culture'

About 60 years ago in Tangier, Morocco, my mother was around 5 years old. Since we were children, she used to tell us about her cherished memories of beloved Morocco, of Chimo, my grandmother's housemaid. Chimo was a Muslim girl who cared for my mother devotedly, carried her on her shoulders, took her to visit her village, and showed her love. Growing up in Israel amidst attacks, it seemed odd to me how a Muslim woman working for Jews could love a Jewish girl like a daughter or little sister, but in this magical kingdom, it was and remains possible – genuine peaceful relations between Jews and Moroccans.

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Indeed, to this day Moroccan Jewry holds a warm connection to the land where many Jewish families lived vibrant community lives across the Atlas region. The heritage left by our parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents native to the kingdom is a legacy of unique memories about a royal family that loves and respects the Jewish nation dwelling there. The unified community had a rich culture and spiritual life connected to the Torah, maintaining very good reciprocal relations with the Moroccan people.

Palestinian Flag at World Cup? Personal Initiative of a Player, Not Representative of Moroccan People

About 80 years later, with Israel having official diplomatic relations and a 'warm peace' with this colorful and unique kingdom, it was strange for many Israelis watching the World Cup games to see the Palestinian flag hoisted by a Moroccan national team player.

Eyal David, Israel's Deputy Ambassador to Morocco, was interviewed by Hidabroot, and firmly stated that the act does not represent the Moroccan people: 'I was asked about it in a few Israeli media outlets because it bothered the Israeli eye. I investigated with my Moroccan friends, and indeed, the mountain gave birth to a mouse: it was a private initiative by a player playing in a Saudi team. It does not represent the Moroccan people. Moreover, I attended celebrations in Morocco, in Marrakesh and Rabat, after victories in previous World Cup stages, and I didn’t see Palestinian flags. This initiative certainly doesn’t represent the good relations between the countries in all fields.'

David points out that, on the contrary, tomorrow Israel and Morocco celebrate two years of renewed official diplomatic relations, and the ties are flourishing in all areas. 'So far, there have been eight Israeli ministerial visits here, and agreements have been signed in economy, security, culture, academia, sports, and so on. Currently, there are 15 direct weekly flights connecting Jerusalem and Tel Aviv to Marrakesh and Casablanca. Within about a year, around 70,000 Israelis have come to Morocco, and the expectation of the Moroccan tourism office is that in 2023 about 200,000 people will arrive.'

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On Life in Morocco: 'It's an Honor to Feel Israeli Here'

David further adds that it seems crucial for the Moroccan government and the royal house to preserve and maintain Jewish heritage and culture, as Jews have always been an integral part of the kingdom and Moroccan society.

David also talks about life as an Israeli in present-day Morocco: 'There is a sense of warmth and appreciation towards Israelis here. Even taxi drivers tell stories about their grandparents who lived in harmony with Jews, and it’s touching. In my previous role, I spent about three years in East Africa, residing in Kenya. Although there was a small Jewish community there, it can’t compare to the community in Morocco - it's heartening to see a thriving Jewish community within the Arab-Muslim realm of the Middle East. We have no other examples like this today in North Africa, thanks to the Moroccan royal house that advocates coexistence and tolerance towards all community segments.'

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'Now, thanks to the establishment of official relations between Israel and Morocco and the deepening of connections, we are building a large embassy. The potential in the relations is immense in all fields, and it is a great privilege to be part of this as a country representative in every initiative, festival, and ceremony. It is a great pride to see the Israeli flag raised here alongside the Moroccan flag, and I invite everyone to come visit and discover this magical kingdom and its rich Jewish past.'

Join Hidabroot on a historic journey in Morocco following the righteous of Morocco through the generations: 8 exciting days visiting tombs of the righteous, sights, sounds, colors, and gourmet treats under high-level kosher standards. Featuring RabbiShimon Peretzwith encouraging and humorous lectures, and the artist Moshe Dweck in a singing concert with musicians and much more soul. Come on the journey of your life. Yud'-Yud Zayin Sh'vat 1.2-8.2. Call073-222-1202orclick here