After Israel’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, Morocco initiated the process of upgrading the diplomatic status of its office in Tel Aviv to that of an embassy, reported Israeli news website “I24.”
Morocco had conditioned Israel to formally recognize Sahara as Moroccan before opening an office there. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu provided this recognition on Monday.
Rabat frequently brought up the matter in discussions with Jerusalem, according to Israeli officials. Netanyahu released a letter a little more than six months later announcing Israel’s choice to recognize the sovereignty of Morocco over the Sahara.
The Israeli prime minister also said that Israel was serious in its claim of exploring the possibility of opening of a consulate in the town of Dakhla, according to a statement by the Royal Office.
“I welcome Prime Minister Netanyahu’s announcement on the recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara,” Israel’s Foreign Minister Eli Cohen confirmed, adding “This step will strengthen the relations between the countries and between the peoples and the continuation of cooperation to deepen regional peace and stability.”
Meir Ben Shabbat, a former Israeli national security head, said that it was important for Israel to recognize Sahara as part of Morocco, saying the decision made by Prime Minister Netanyahu was needed to strengthen the relations between the countries.