Ismail Lghazaoui, a pro-Palestine BDS activist, was released from Moroccan prison after international protests against his detention. He had served two months of a one-year sentence for inciting a blockade against the US embassy. His case reveals increasing governmental crackdowns on pro-Palestine activism since Morocco normalized relations with Israel.
A Moroccan court has recently liberated Ismail Lghazaoui, a notable Palestine activist involved in the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. His release on February 5 followed significant public protests and international appeals advocating for his freedom. Initially sentenced to one year in prison for urging a blockade of the US embassy, the court reduced his sentence to time served after an appeal.
The case of Ismail Lghazaoui highlights the tension between pro-Palestine activists and the Moroccan government, especially following Morocco’s normalization of relations with Israel in late 2020. Lghazaoui’s detention, which began on November 19, 2024, is part of a broader trend where Moroccan authorities have actively targeted dissenters who oppose this normalization. The atmosphere of repression has intensified since the recent Gaza conflict, leading to numerous legal actions against activists.
The release of Ismail Lghazaoui signals a partial victory for pro-Palestine groups amid ongoing tensions in Morocco regarding Israel relationships. Activists continue to face severe repercussions for voicing dissent to the government’s stance, illustrating the precarious situation for freedom of expression in the country. Calls for the release of other detained activists persist, emphasizing strong opposition to the normalization of ties with Israel.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
