Israel, Morocco deepen defense cooperation as def. min. director-general Baram visits Rabat

Defense Ministry Director-General Amir Baram is meeting with senior Moroccan defense officials this week, the ministry announced Tuesday.

The meetings included the National Defense Administration minister delegate, the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces (FAR) inspector-general, and other senior officials from the Royal Palace and the intelligence services.

Since the renewal of diplomatic relations in 2020 and the signing of the defense Memorandum of Understanding in November 2021, security ties between Israel and Morocco have grown significantly, including during the three years of war, the ministry said.

This growth in defense cooperation has defied the global trend of defense boycotts against Israel following the October 7 attacks.

The Jerusalem Post has met Moroccan officials in Israel and noted their undaunted interest in Israeli defense products.

Israel-Morocco defense deals executed under gov't-to-gov't agreements 

Most defense deals with Morocco are executed under government-to-government (G2G) agreements led by the Defense Ministry.

In a new move, Israeli defense industries are also supporting the establishment of an independent Moroccan defense industry through joint ventures and offset agreements.

The delegation also includes IDF representatives.

The ministry noted that the FAR and the IDF have developed ties, including joint training across a range of fields.

During the visit, Baram will inaugurate the permanent premises of the Defense Attaché Office in Rabat, headed by Col. Sharon Itach, Israel's first permanent defense attaché to Morocco.

Baram's visit reflects strategy of deepening defense cooperation with allies

Baram's visit to Morocco reflects the Defense Ministry's strategy to deepen defense cooperation with friendly nations and expand defense exports to strengthen the IDF's force buildup, influence foreign policy, and bolster the Israeli defense industry and economy, the ministry said.

"Morocco is not just another defense partner. It is much more than that," said Baram. "Over the years, we have built a strong relationship founded on trust, mutual respect, Jewish heritage, and deep historical ties between our peoples. We intend to continue advancing the relationship between our countries to new heights."