Often described as a truly “special relationship,” the long-standing alliance between Washington and Rabat stands as one of the most enduring and distinctive partnerships in American diplomatic history. From its unshakeable historical roots to the pragmatic adjustments made during the Cold War era, we delve into the intricate bilateral journey that has consistently sought a delicate balance.
On June 23, 1786, Morocco made history by becoming the first nation to officially recognize the independence of the United States. This recognition was formalized through a Treaty of Peace and Friendship, a foundational document that remarkably remains in effect today. Born from the nascent American government’s need to safeguard its merchant shipping from Mediterranean piracy, this treaty established the bedrock of a connection that both capitals proudly refer to as “special.” Yet, beneath this diplomatic rhetoric, the reality of an alliance shaped by strategic imperatives and geopolitical shifts presents a far more nuanced picture.
World War II: a pivotal shift
While the ties between the two nations date back centuries, it was the Second World War that truly solidified their convergence. In 1942, Operation Torch saw the landing of 35,000 American soldiers on Moroccan shores, an Allied offensive led by General Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Beyond its military significance, this period proved transformative for Sultan Mohammed V. During the Casablanca Conference in 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt reportedly pledged 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: airbases and strategic pragmatism
Following Morocco’s independence in 1956, the relationship had to adapt to the new realities of the Cold War. Washington viewed Morocco as an indispensable strategic foothold, establishing airbases for its Strategic Air Command (SAC) to project nuclear force 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 foreign troops, while American strategists worried about Rabat potentially aligning with the Non-Aligned Movement. This diplomatic standoff culminated in 1963 with the complete withdrawal of American forces from Moroccan soil, honoring prior agreements.
Regional stability and political maneuvering
The stability of the Moroccan monarchy has consistently been a key concern for the United States. During the attempted coups against King Hassan II in 1971 and 1972, Washington reacted with alarm, fearing the loss of a moderate ally in an inherently unstable region. Despite the King’s fleeting suspicions of potential American involvement – fueled by the use of American fighter jets by the plotters – the relationship ultimately endured.
Over the decades, Morocco has honed a particular expertise in navigating the complex American political system, skillfully transforming its security requirements into enhanced cooperation. From military assistance concerning the Western Sahara to the implementation of Peace Corps development projects, the alliance has evolved to include a form of reciprocal “soft power.”
Anticipating future challenges
Today, as the regional landscape continues to shift in the wake of the “Arab Spring” upheavals, the future trajectory of this special relationship is once again under scrutiny. Washington must carefully balance maintaining a historically strategic alliance with supporting the political aspirations of local populations.
As Middle East expert Carol Migdalovitz highlighted, the challenges are formidable. How the United States addresses these critical issues, while simultaneously safeguarding its historical bond with Morocco, will be pivotal in shaping the nature of this vital relationship moving forward.
