The partnership between Washington and Rabat, often described as a “special relationship,” stands as one of the most enduring and distinctive in American diplomacy. Tracing its roots from unshakeable historical foundations to pragmatic adaptations throughout the Cold War era, this complex bilateral journey has been defined by a continuous pursuit of equilibrium.
On June 23, 1786, Morocco made history as the first nation to officially acknowledge the independence of the United States, formalizing this recognition with a Treaty of Peace and Amity that remains active to this day. This foundational document, spurred by Washington’s necessity to safeguard its merchant fleet from Mediterranean piracy, continues to be the bedrock of a connection both capitals proudly label “special.” However, beneath the diplomatic language, the true nature of this alliance, shaped by strategic imperatives and geopolitical shifts, presents a more intricate picture.
The pivotal shift during World War II
While the bond was already established, it was the Second World War that truly solidified the rapprochement between the two nations. In 1942, Operation Torch, an Allied invasion led by General Dwight D. Eisenhower, saw approximately 35,000 American troops land on Moroccan shores.
Beyond its military implications, this period marked a crucial turning point for Sultan Mohammed V. During the 1943 Casablanca Conference, President Franklin D. Roosevelt reportedly assured the Sultan of American backing for the restoration of Moroccan sovereignty post-war. This pledge significantly boosted American prestige among Moroccans, despite causing considerable displeasure to General de Gaulle.
Cold War era: air bases and pragmatism
Following Morocco’s independence in 1956, the relationship had to adapt to the new realities of the Cold War. Washington viewed Morocco as a vital strategic foothold, leading to the establishment of air bases for its Strategic Air Command (SAC), designed to project nuclear power towards the Soviet bloc.
Nevertheless, King Mohammed V’s strong desire for national sovereignty soon created friction. Morocco’s primary objective was the departure of foreign troops, while American strategists worried Rabat might gravitate towards the Non-Aligned Movement. This diplomatic struggle culminated in 1963 with the complete withdrawal of American forces from Moroccan territory, honoring previous commitments.
Regional stability and political maneuvers
The enduring stability of the Moroccan monarchy has consistently been a central concern for the United States. During the attempted coups against King Hassan II in 1971 and 1972, Washington expressed significant apprehension, fearing the loss of a moderate ally in an unpredictable region. Despite the King’s brief suspicions regarding potential American involvement—fueled by the use of American fighter jets by the plotters—the fundamental relationship persevered.
Over the decades, Morocco has honed a unique ability to navigate the intricate American political landscape, skillfully transforming its security requirements into fortified collaboration. From military assistance concerning the Western Sahara to development initiatives like the Peace Corps, the bilateral connection has evolved into a form of reciprocal “soft power.”
Future challenges for the alliance
Presently, as the regional environment continues to transform with the reverberations of the “Arab Spring,” the future trajectory of this special relationship is once again under scrutiny. Washington faces the delicate task of balancing the preservation of a strategic historical alliance with supporting the political aspirations of local populations.
As Carol Migdalovitz, a Middle Eastern affairs expert, emphasizes, the challenges ahead are considerable. The approach the United States takes in addressing these issues, while simultaneously safeguarding its historical bond with Morocco, will be crucial in shaping the character of this relationship going forward.
