Morocco and the United States strengthen their relations following Donald Trump's return to the White House
Morocco has become an important strategic and security partner for the United States on the African continent. Since Donald Trump first came to power in the US in 2017, these relations have undergone several changes.
This rapprochement in diplomatic relations between the United States and Morocco has a lot to do with the geopolitical changes that have taken place in the region, such as the loss of the US military base in Niger and speculation about the possible transfer of the largest US base in Spain, the naval base in Rota (Cádiz) to Morocco.
The North African country could play a key role in the US reinforcing its security presence in Africa and regaining control and influence over the African Sahel region.
This is an important region for the United States as it is currently under Russian-Chinese control and there is a significant movement of armed groups that represent a threat to the West and that generate political chaos in the countries of the region, highlighting the fragility of the current military governments.
Historical trajectory
Throughout history, Morocco has been a constant in US strategy. Morocco was the first country to recognise the United States, after its Declaration of Independence in 1776, and it helped to end the American Civil War. In addition, during the Second World War, it cooperated in the liberation of Europe from Nazism and, during the Cold War, it provided logistical and intelligence support to the United States.
Trump's return to the White House has meant a strategic shift in US foreign policy, in favour of a more realistic and practical approach, as well as a focus on US security and economic interests. Hence Morocco has once again become an important strategic partner in the North African region.
It should be remembered that, during Trump's first term (2017-2021), one of the highlights was the US recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara in December 2020. All this, as part of the agreement to normalise relations between Israel and Rabat.
Morocco as a strategic alternative
One of the factors that demonstrates Morocco's importance to the United States is the loss of the US military base in Niger, following the military coup that took place in that country in 2023. The base played a key role in counter-terrorism operations in the Sahel region and was a launch pad for US military air operations.
Likewise, speculation about the possible transfer of the Rota naval base has also increased. This move to Moroccan territory could considerably strengthen the US military presence in the region and allow it to regain control of security, even if only partially, in the African Sahel.
The partnership between the two countries represents an opportunity to improve cooperation in various areas, including trade, energy and investment: Morocco would be a US gateway to Africa, as well as creating a secure environment for cooperation and could improve economic growth in the region.
Challenges in relations
Regional tensions, such as the dispute over Western Sahara, are one of the cornerstones of Morocco's foreign policy. The Trump Administration's recognition of Moroccan sovereignty in the region is crucial to gaining Morocco's support and guaranteeing the US presence in Africa.
However, there are concerns that a greater US military presence in Morocco could increase tensions with neighbouring countries, especially Algeria, whose current government has strained relations with Rabat.
Both the loss of the base in Niger and the speculation about the transfer of the base in Rota to Morocco reflect Washington's efforts to regain control of security in the Sahel. Its success will depend on the capacity of the United States and Morocco to face regional challenges and improve cooperation in various fields, especially security and military.