On April 24, 2026, the Moroccan Observatory Against Normalization condemned the organization of Talmudic rites at a replica of the Western Wall in Morocco, calling it an acceleration of Zionist infiltration into the kingdom. The group, which monitors normalization with Israel, issued a statement on social media, according to reports from Moroccan media outlets such as Hespress and Le360.
The replica, located in the city of Oujda near the Algerian border, was inaugurated in 2020 as part of the Mimouna cultural association's efforts to preserve Jewish heritage. The observatory claims the rites, which included prayers and readings from the Torah, violate Moroccan law and national sovereignty.
Morocco normalized relations with Israel in December 2020 under the Abraham Accords, brokered by the United States. Since then, cultural and religious exchanges have increased, drawing criticism from pro-Palestinian groups. The observatory has previously protested similar events, including visits by Israeli tourists and the opening of a Jewish museum.
As of April 2026, the Moroccan government has not officially responded to the observatory's accusations. The event highlights ongoing tensions between supporters of normalization and those opposing it, reflecting broader divisions in Moroccan society over ties with Israel.
