US, Morocco Security Alliance: A Blueprint for Regional, Global Security

Rabat – In their 2023 country report on terrorism, the US acknowledged Morocco’s continued dedication to the fight against terrorism and violent extremism, lauding the country’s effective joint efforts in counterterrorism (CT) operations, regional collaboration, and counter-radicalization strategies.

Morocco’s strong partnership with the US in security matters has played a pivotal role in reducing the threat of terrorism, with both countries actively working together to combat shared global challenges.

Strong bilateral cooperation in counterterrorism

The US Department of State has consistently commended Morocco for its robust counterterrorism efforts. Morocco’s comprehensive strategy, which incorporates vigilant security measures, regional and international cooperation, and effective counter-radicalization policies, aligns closely with US priorities.

In the 2023 report, the US singled out Morocco’s commitment to regional and international collaboration in addressing terrorism, particularly its ongoing role in the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS. The report commended Morocco for continuing to mitigate terrorism risks through vigilant intelligence collection and operational cooperation.

The partnership between Morocco and the US extends beyond rhetoric to tangible, on-the-ground efforts.

In 2023, Moroccan law enforcement arrested 56 individuals involved in terrorist activities, many of whom were linked to ISIS. The US has been a vital partner in supporting Morocco’s intelligence capabilities, contributing to successful counterterrorism operations.

Morocco’s Central Bureau of Judicial Investigation (BCIJ), which is tasked with counterterrorism prosecutions, continues to play a leading role in dismantling terrorist cells and preventing large-scale attacks. The close coordination between US and Moroccan agencies has been instrumental in these achievements.

Joint operations, security programs

The US has also recognized Morocco’s engagement in a wide range of US-sponsored programs designed to boost technical and investigative capabilities.

Moroccan law enforcement has participated in programs to improve areas such as financial investigations, intelligence analysis, and cybersecurity. One flagship program sends Moroccan security personnel, FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia to hone their skills in various fields.

Notable joint operations in 2023 reflected the success of the collaboration between Moroccan authorities and international partners. In these operations, Moroccan law enforcement detained dozens of individuals involved in planning attacks on security forces and national infrastructure.

The raids, which led more often than not to the seizure of weapons and terrorist materials, are a clear example of how US-Moroccan cooperation helps disrupt terrorist activities before they can be carried out.

In addition to security and intelligence sharing, US and Moroccan efforts to combat terrorist financing have been integral to their joint counterterrorism approach.

In 2023, Morocco’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) gray list, a global initiative targeting money laundering and financing of terrorism and proliferation, was acknowledged by the U.S. The achievement reflected Morocco’s strides in enhancing anti-money laundering measures and bolstering regulatory systems to curb terrorist financing.

These efforts are further enhanced by Morocco’s role in the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force (MENAFATF), where it works closely with international partners to disrupt terrorist financial networks.

Countering violent extremism: a shared priority

The US has also acknowledged Morocco’s efforts in countering violent extremism (CVE), which has become a significant element of the US-Morocco partnership.

Morocco’s CVE strategies, which focus on both security measures and broader societal development, are aligned with US initiatives aimed at tackling the root causes of radicalization.

Morocco has educational programs designed for 50,000 preachers (imams) and female Islamic guides (mourchidates) to prevent radical ideologies from taking root within religious institutions.

These initiatives, which have drawn support from the US, help ensure that religious leaders are equipped to challenge extremist views and provide positive guidance to their communities.

Through the Royal Mohammedan League of Ulema and the Moussalaha (Reconciliation) program, Morocco also works to reintegrate former extremists, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to de-radicalization. US officials have commended these programs, noting their importance in tackling the long-term drivers of extremism, which complement the military and security measures in place.

International, regional impact

Morocco’s influence extends beyond its borders, with the country playing a leading role in regional and global counterterrorism efforts.

As a co-chair of the Africa Focus Group and a member of the Global Counterterrorism Forum (GCTF), Morocco works alongside international allies, including the US, to address the growing threat of terrorism in Africa.

The US has been particularly supportive of Morocco’s initiatives within the GCTF, including the launch of an education-focused initiative in 2023 aimed at preventing and countering violent extremism.

The partnership between Morocco and the US in counterterrorism and countering violent extremism remains a cornerstone of both countries’ security strategies.

Through strong bilateral cooperation, joint operations, and a shared commitment to countering terrorist financing, Morocco and the US continue to set an example for global counterterrorism efforts, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of tackling evolving threats.