Often described as a “special relationship,” the enduring alliance between Washington and Rabat stands as one of the most ancient and distinctive in American diplomatic history. From its unshakeable historical roots to the pragmatic adjustments made during the Cold War, this complex bilateral journey has consistently sought a delicate balance.
On June 23, 1786, the Kingdom of Morocco made history by becoming the first nation to officially recognize the nascent United States, formalizing this recognition with a Treaty of Peace and Friendship that remains in effect today. This foundational document, initiated by Washington’s strategic need to safeguard its maritime trade from Mediterranean piracy, continues to be the bedrock of a connection both capitals proudly label as “special.” Yet, beyond this diplomatic language, the reality of an alliance forged by strategic imperatives and dynamic geopolitical shifts presents a more intricate picture.
The pivotal shift of World War II
While the ties are undeniably ancient, it was the crucible of the Second World War that truly cemented the rapprochement between the two nations. In 1942, Operation Torch saw the landing of 35,000 American soldiers on Moroccan shores, launched by Allied forces under the command of General Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Beyond its military significance, this period marked a crucial turning point for Sultan Mohammed V. During the landmark Casablanca Conference in 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt reportedly assured the Sultan of American support for the restoration of Moroccan sovereignty post-war. This promise significantly bolstered American prestige among Moroccans, despite causing considerable displeasure to General de Gaulle.
The Cold War: air bases and pragmatic strategy
Following Morocco’s independence in 1956, the relationship had to adapt to the new realities of the Cold War. Washington, recognizing Morocco as an indispensable strategic stronghold, established air bases for its Strategic Air Command (SAC) on Moroccan soil, enabling the projection of its nuclear capabilities towards the Soviet bloc.
However, King Mohammed V’s unwavering commitment to national sovereignty soon led to friction. Morocco’s primary objective was the departure of all foreign troops, while American strategists harbored concerns that Rabat might align itself with the Non-Aligned Movement. This diplomatic tussle ultimately resulted in the complete withdrawal of American forces from Moroccan territory by 1963, honoring earlier commitments.
Regional stability and strategic diplomacy
The stability of the Moroccan monarchy has consistently been a core concern for the United States. During the attempted coups against King Hassan II in 1971 and 1972, Washington expressed deep apprehension, fearing the loss of a moderate and reliable ally in a volatile region. Despite the King’s fleeting suspicions regarding potential American involvement—fueled by the use of American fighter jets by the plotters—the fundamental strength of the relationship endured.
Over the ensuing decades, Morocco honed a unique expertise in navigating the intricate American political landscape, skillfully transforming its security requirements into enhanced collaboration. From military assistance crucial for the control of Western Sahara to the implementation of Peace Corps development initiatives, the partnership steadily evolved, fostering a reciprocal form of “soft power” engagement.
Addressing future challenges
Today, with the regional landscape reshaped by the significant upheavals of the “Arab Spring,” the future trajectory of this special relationship is once again at the forefront. Washington faces the complex task of balancing the preservation of a vital historical alliance with the imperative of supporting the political aspirations of local populations.
As Carol Migdalovitz, a respected specialist in Middle Eastern affairs, has highlighted, the challenges ahead are substantial. The approach the United States adopts in addressing these multifaceted issues, while diligently safeguarding its historic bond with Morocco, will be pivotal in shaping the very essence of this relationship for generations to come.
