Often described as a “special relationship,” the alliance between Washington and Rabat stands as one of the oldest and most unique in American diplomatic history. From its unshakeable historical foundations to pragmatic adjustments during the Cold War, we trace the complex bilateral journey, consistently marked by a pursuit of equilibrium.

On June 23, 1786, Morocco made history by becoming the first nation to officially recognize the independence of the United States, formalizing this recognition with a Treaty of Peace and Friendship that remains in effect today. This foundational document, born from Washington’s need to safeguard its merchant fleet from Mediterranean piracy, serves as the cornerstone of a bond both capitals proudly label as “special.” Yet, beyond this diplomatic rhetoric, the reality reveals an alliance far more nuanced, shaped by strategic imperatives and geopolitical shifts.

The pivotal shift during World War II

While the relationship boasts ancient roots, it was the Second World War that truly solidified the rapprochement between the two nations. In 1942, Operation Torch, spearheaded by Allied forces under the command of General Dwight D. Eisenhower, saw the landing of 35,000 American soldiers on Moroccan shores.

Beyond its military significance, this period proved pivotal for Sultan Mohammed V. During the Casablanca Conference in 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt reportedly assured the Sultan of American support for the restoration of Moroccan sovereignty post-war. This promise significantly bolstered American prestige in the eyes of Moroccans, despite strongly displeasing General de Gaulle.

The Cold War era: air bases and pragmatic strategy

Following Morocco’s independence in 1956, the relationship had to adapt to the new realities of the Cold War. Washington, recognizing Morocco as an indispensable strategic outpost, established air bases for its Strategic Air Command (SAC) there, enabling the projection of its nuclear force towards the Soviet bloc.

However, King Mohammed V’s strong desire for complete sovereignty soon led to tensions. Morocco’s priority was the departure of all foreign troops, while American strategists worried that Rabat might align with the Non-Aligned Movement. This diplomatic standoff culminated in 1963 with the complete withdrawal of American forces from Moroccan soil, in accordance with prior commitments.

Regional stability and political maneuvering

The stability of the Moroccan regime has consistently been a central concern for the United States. During the attempted coups against King Hassan II in 1971 and 1972, Washington reacted with apprehension, 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 putschists—the relationship ultimately endured.

Over the decades, Morocco has honed a particular expertise in navigating the complex American political system, skillfully transforming its security needs into enhanced collaboration. From military assistance concerning the Western Sahara to development initiatives like the Peace Corps, the relationship has evolved to encompass a form of reciprocal “soft power.”

Navigating future challenges

Today, as the regional landscape continues to shift following the upheavals of the “Arab Spring,” the future of this special relationship is once again under scrutiny. Washington must carefully balance its commitment to a historic strategic alliance with the imperative to support the political aspirations of local populations.

As Middle East affairs specialist Carol Migdalovitz emphasizes, the challenges ahead are considerable. The approach the United States takes in addressing these intricate issues, while simultaneously preserving its enduring historical ties with Morocco, will be crucial in shaping the fundamental nature of this vital relationship moving forward.