Abdelilah Benkirane condemns pro-Israel media statements in Morocco

In Morocco, at a festival organized by his Justice and Development Party, Abdelilah Benkirane expressed strong criticism of an article written by Ahmed Charai, who heads the Global Media Holding group. The article, published in the Times of Israel, defended Israel's actions and was described by Benkirane as 'shameful.' He emphasized that such positions contradict the values of defending Palestinian rights. The Justice and Development Party's General Secretariat rejected Charai's article entirely, condemning it as praise for genocide and state terrorism. This exchange highlights growing tensions in Morocco regarding media narratives surrounding the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. Charai's article, published on November 24, argued that the International Criminal Court's (ICC) arrest warrants for Israeli leaders were unjust and raised concerns about the court's legitimacy. Charai contended that Israel's military response to Hamas attacks should be regarded through the lens of self-defense, a principle he claimed is foundational in international law. This viewpoint starkly contrasts with widespread international condemnation of Israel's military operations in Gaza, especially amidst ongoing reports of significant civilian casualties and humanitarian crises there. Israel has faced ongoing global backlash for its military actions resulting in unprecedented loss of life and severe humanitarian impacts in Gaza. Reports indicate incredible devastation, with thousands of Palestinian casualties, including many women and children. Such circumstances have escalated debates about moral responsibility and the implications of foreign support for Israel amid allegations of war crimes. Benkirane's condemnation reflects a broader dissatisfaction among many in Morocco and the Arab world regarding the portrayal of Israel in media, especially from local figures who may be seen as aligning too closely with Western narratives. The clash between Benkirane and Charai signifies a critical moment in Moroccan media where the narratives surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict are increasingly scrutinized and challenged.