In the face of escalating tensions with Iran, Morocco has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the security of Gulf States, emphasizing a deep-rooted alliance that extends from diplomatic backing to robust military and intelligence cooperation. This enduring partnership, which has evolved since the 1980s, underscores Morocco's strategic commitment to regional stability and counterterrorism efforts alongside its Gulf allies. Archive photo ‹ › Since the onset of Iranian aggression against the Gulf States, King Mohammed VI has reiterated to the leaders of these countries his full support for any legitimate measures they deem appropriate to safeguard their security and the safety of their citizens. During these phone exchanges, the sovereign also stressed that Morocco considers the security of the Gulf countries to be «an integral part» of its own. The same message was conveyed on Thursday, March 12, by Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita during a meeting with his counterparts from the Gulf Cooperation Council. Beyond diplomatic courtesy, these statements reflect a consistent political line rooted in Morocco's long-standing commitment to the security of the Gulf States in the face of regional threats, particularly those linked to Iran, a position that dates back to the 1980s. The kingdom was among the first Arab countries to support Iraq during its war with Iran. Rabat notably helped persuade several monarchies in the region to adopt a similar stance during the 1982 Arab Summit in Fez, which brought together regional leaders including former Iraqi president Saddam Hussein alongside the rulers of the Gulf countries. During this summit, both Rabat and Baghdad had already severed diplomatic relations with Tehran. This commitment was also reflected in strong diplomatic decisions, including the severing of relations with Iran in 2009, the second such move after 1981, amid tensions linked in particular to the territorial integrity of Bahrain. Growing military and security cooperation Beyond political support, cooperation between Morocco and the Gulf monarchies has gradually expanded into the military and security spheres. The Royal Armed Forces regularly participate in joint exercises with the region's armies and maintain training programs and exchanges of expertise with several GCC member states. This cooperation was concretely illustrated in 2015 when Morocco joined the Arab coalition led by Saudi Arabia in Yemen, deploying F-16 fighter jets and liaison officers alongside the forces of Gulf countries. Moroccan contingents have also been deployed in several Gulf States as part of military cooperation, training, and technical assistance missions. In January 2014, hundreds of members of the Royal Armed Forces were sent to the United Arab Emirates as the country faced threats from the terrorist group Islamic State. Morocco's commitment to the security of the Gulf monarchies has also been reflected in its participation in the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition, an initiative launched by Saudi Arabia aimed at coordinating efforts to combat terrorism and transnational threats across the Muslim world. A strengthened strategic partnership Morocco also maintains close security cooperation with several Gulf States in areas such as intelligence sharing, the fight against violent extremism, and the protection of strategic infrastructure. This cooperation is reflected in numerous public meetings between Abdellatif Hammouchi, Director General of the General Directorate of National Security and the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance, and his counterparts from Gulf countries. By contrast, the visits of Yassine Mansouri, director of the General Directorate of Studies and Documentation, to the region are generally conducted more discreetly. Moroccan security services have on several occasions shared their recognized expertise in preventing terrorism and dismantling radical networks. On an institutional level, the strategic rapprochement between Rabat and the Gulf monarchies was further strengthened in 2011 when the GCC invited Morocco to join a strategic partnership with its member states. The initiative sought to deepen political, economic, and security cooperation between the kingdom and Gulf capitals in a regional context shaped by the upheavals of the Arab Spring. Moroccan solidarity with the Gulf countries has also been expressed during security crises directly affecting these states, particularly during periods of tension with Iran. Over the decades, these partnerships have been reinforced through the signing of multiple security agreements. In February 2014, a new agreement was concluded with the United Arab Emirates, reinforcing and updating a previous one signed in 2006. That same year, the King of Bahrain, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, received the Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces, General Abdelaziz Bennani, in Manama. These military agreements and high-level exchanges have helped consolidate a strategic relationship based on political solidarity, security cooperation, and a convergence of views on regional stability, making Morocco a trusted partner of the Gulf monarchies. Article modifié le 16/03/2026 à 16h06
