Israel and Morocco agree to open embassies, upgrading diplomatic ties

Israel and Morocco have agreed to upgrade their diplomatic relations, including establishing full embassies and appointing ambassadors in each other's countries. This agreement was reached during a meeting between their foreign ministers, hosted by the US ambassador to the UN in New York. The two nations also committed to expanding air travel, reinstating direct commercial flights, and advancing economic and trade relations with agreements on investment protection and preventing double taxation planned for completion by year-end. The US mission to the UN stated that establishing these relations is in the common interest of both countries and will advance peace. The announcement follows the sixth anniversary of the Abraham Accords, which aim to normalize ties between Arab/Muslim-majority countries and Israel.

Israel and Morocco agreed to upgrade their diplomatic missions to full embassies and exchange ambassadors during a trilateral meeting in New York. This agreement advances commitments made under the Abraham Accords, including reinstating direct flights and expanding cooperation in various sectors. The discussion also touched upon the potential inclusion of Saudi Arabia in the normalization framework, with U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz highlighting regional threats from Iran-backed Houthis as a reason for increased cooperation. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar emphasized the importance of countries with shared interests cooperating against threats to global trade. Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita noted that relations with Israel can provide practical tools to assist Palestinians.