On December 10, 2024, the Court of First Instance in Casablanca sentenced Ismail Lghazaoui, a pro-Palestinian activist and human rights defender, to one year in prison and imposed a fine of 5,000 Moroccan Dirhams (approximately 478 euros). Lghazaoui was charged with “inciting to commit felonies and misdemeanors by electronic means,” a verdict that has drawn condemnation from human rights organizations and activists worldwide. Ismail Lghazaoui is a Moroccan agricultural engineer and an outspoken advocate for Palestinian rights. He has consistently opposed Morocco’s normalization of relations with Israel and actively supported campaigns aligned with the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS Movement) movement. These initiatives include the ‘Boycott Carrefour’ campaign, aimed at pressuring companies with ties to Israel, and the “Mask off Maersk” campaign, which seeks to halt the transfer of weapons to Israel.
Lghazaoui’s activism is rooted in peaceful protest and non-violent resistance. His efforts highlight the plight of the Palestinian people and aim to challenge the economic and political frameworks that enable the Israeli occupation. Despite the peaceful nature of his actions, the Moroccan authorities have targeted Lghazaoui, viewing his activism as a threat to the country’s political alignment and policies. The Court’s decision to convict Lghazaoui for his online activities raises concerns about the suppression of free expression and political dissent in Morocco. By criminalizing his use of digital platforms to advocate for human rights, the authorities have signaled a troubling shift towards greater control over civic space and dissenting voices. Human rights organizations and activists have criticized the Moroccan government for its treatment of Lghazaoui. They argue that his conviction represents an attack on free speech and peaceful advocacy.
The sentence is also seen as part of a broader crackdown on voices critical of Morocco’s normalization with Israel, a policy that has been met with significant opposition within the country.
