Morocco has been exploring new diplomatic and military ties with the United States, while its allies have expressed concern over the growing relationship. The recent influx of more than 50,000 people into Spain’s northern enclave of Ceuta has drawn attention to Morocco’s strategic alignment with the U.S., particularly under former President Donald Trump. This development comes amid heightened tensions along the border between Morocco and Spain, which has become a focal point for migration flows and regional security issues. The relationship between Morocco and the United States dates back nearly 250 years, with Morocco being the first country to recognize American independence in 1777. This historical bond was further strengthened during Trump's presidency, especially through Morocco’s participation in the Abraham Accords in 2020. These agreements aimed to normalize relations between Arab countries and Israel, and Morocco was among the earliest signatories. Despite widespread public support for Palestinian rights in Morocco, the government chose to align itself with U.S. interests, leading to Trump publicly recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2020. This recognition came to light again recently when the Moroccan embassy in the U.S. shared a letter from Trump to King Mohammed VI, sent on the occasion of Eid al-Arsh, commemorating the king’s coronation in 1999. In the letter, Trump described Morocco’s claim to Western Sahara as a “just and lasting solution,” dismissing other alternatives as “unacceptable.” He also pledged continued support for Morocco’s economic and social development, including in Western Sahara, and emphasized ongoing defense and energy partnerships. In addition to diplomatic moves, Morocco has significantly increased its military cooperation with the United States. Over the past five years, Morocco has undertaken extensive modernization efforts, purchasing large quantities of advanced weaponry from the U.S. According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Morocco’s imports of heavy arms rose by 12% between 2021 and 2025 compared to the period from 2016 to 2020. The U.S. accounts for 60% of these arms deliveries, making it the primary supplier of military equipment to Morocco. Currently, Morocco stands as the largest buyer of U.S. military hardware in Africa. The U.S. Department of State reports that active foreign military sales (FMS) to Morocco amount to $8.545 billion. Among the items included in these contracts are 18 launchers for the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), the same system used by Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. Additionally, the U.S. has authorized the permanent export of over $167 million in defense articles to Morocco between fiscal years 2018 and 2022, spanning both Trump’s and Biden’s administrations. Beyond direct arms sales, the U.S. has also provided military assistance through Foreign Military Financing (FMF), totaling $135 million since 2012. Since the late 1990s, Morocco has hosted joint military exercises known as AFRICA LION, involving U.S. and Moroccan forces alongside participants from over twenty countries and NATO. These exercises have positioned Morocco as a key player in southern Europe’s defense strategy, according to the latest report by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation. Spain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, José Luis Borrell, acknowledged the unusual nature of the mass migration into Ceuta but noted Morocco’s willingness to prevent such incidents. However, concerns remain among European partners regarding the implications of Morocco’s deepening alliance with the U.S., particularly given the potential impact on regional stability and migration management. While Morocco emphasizes its commitment to maintaining order along the border, the situation continues to test the balance of power and cooperation in North Africa. The recent developments highlight the complex interplay between historical alliances, contemporary geopolitical strategies, and regional challenges. As Morocco continues to strengthen its ties with the U.S., the responses from European allies and the broader international community will shape the future dynamics of this evolving relationship.
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