Israeli carriers eye Morocco routes after recognition

El Al Israel Airlines (LY, Tel Aviv Ben Gurion) and Israir (6H, Tel Aviv Ben Gurion) have said they will start preparations for the launch of services to Morocco following the country’s recognition of Israel, the Jerusalem Post has reported. Israir’s chief executive, Uri Sirkis, said flights could launch within the next three months. He did not elaborate on any potential routes but added that he could foresee up to 20 weekly return flights. In contrast, El Al did not name any timeline, but said it was particularly interested in serving Casablanca Int’l. Despite the lack of direct air services and the hitherto non-recognition of Israel by Morocco, some 50,000 Israelis visit Morocco every year. About a million Israeli residents also have Moroccan roots. On December 10, Morocco became the fourth Arab-majority country (after Bahrain, Sudan, and the UAE) to recognise Israel over the last several months, spurred by outgoing US President Donald Trump’s diplomatic offensive. However, Rabat and Tel Aviv have long had unofficial relations, including close military and intelligence ties. To sweeten the deal for Morocco, the US recognised its occupation of Western Sahara despite the objections of the UN and contrary to international law.