Israel-Morocco Ties Expand With Missile Talks and New Direct Flights

Israel and Morocco are expanding cooperation in both defense and civilian aviation. Rabat is reportedly considering Israeli-made long-range missiles, while another Israeli airline prepares to restore direct flights to Marrakesh.

The Moroccan military is reportedly considering integrating Israel Aerospace Industries' LORA missile system with HIMARS launchers that it is purchasing from the United States. Morocco is expected to begin receiving the American-made artillery systems during the 2027 fiscal year.

IAI is expected to showcase LORA at the Marrakesh Air Show next month. The missile has a reported range of 400 to 500 kilometers and an accuracy of less than 10 meters. This gives it a longer reach than some munitions currently available for HIMARS, which reach about 300 kilometers.

Morocco already operates Israeli military equipment, including Elbit Systems' PULS rocket and missile launcher. The Moroccan military publicly demonstrated the system in March 2025. According to the report, IAI is also seeking cooperation with Morocco involving local industry, technology transfer and knowledge sharing.

The potential defense deal comes as civilian ties between the two countries also continue to recover.

Sundor, the leisure subsidiary of El Al, announced Tuesday that it will launch direct flights between Tel Aviv and Marrakesh beginning November 16, subject to regulatory approval. The airline plans to operate two flights per week, on Mondays and Wednesdays, with introductory round-trip fares beginning at $599.

Direct air connections between Israel and Morocco were halted following the October 7, 2023 attacks and the subsequent war. Flights began returning this year, with Arkia restoring service last month after a nearly three-year suspension and Israir following earlier in September. Sundor will now become another Israeli carrier serving the route.

Israel and Morocco normalized diplomatic relations in 2020 as part of the US-brokered Abraham Accords. Since then, the countries have developed ties in areas including tourism, trade and defense.

The latest developments highlight the continued practical relationship between Jerusalem and Rabat, with cooperation progressing simultaneously in military technology and civilian travel.