5 Israeli religious tourists killed in car accident in Morocco

By Nour Abuaisha

ISTANBUL (AA) – Five Israeli tourists from Safed were killed in a car accident near the southern Moroccan city of Ouarzazate on Friday, according to Israel's official Kan broadcaster.

Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is assisting with the repatriation of their bodies, which will be transported first to Casablanca and then to France, the broadcaster said.

Israel Hasid, a member of Israel's emergency response team, described the accident as "extremely severe," explaining that the vehicle overturned off the road, resulting in the fatalities.

The tourists were part of a larger group that was visiting Jewish religious sites in Morocco, the media outlet said.

Morocco is home to an estimated 2,000 to 2,500 Jewish residents, according to Israeli figures.

In December 2022, Morocco and Israel resumed diplomatic relations after US mediation. The move faced criticism from various segments of Moroccan society and political organizations.

While high-level Israeli visits to Rabat were initially scheduled, these activities have been halted due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

*Writing by Mohammad Sio