The diplomatic schism between France and Morocco is wider than ever, as seen by Rabat's rejection of France's offer of emergency aid in September. For much of 2023, the Moroccan embassy in Paris has likewise been without an ambassador.
France's decline in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger has highlighted new geopolitical dynamics in Franco-Moroccan ties. Morocco is also experiencing anti-French sentiment. The present political conflict between France and Morocco began when Rabat was accused of failing to readmit some of its citizens who had been required to leave French territory. This was followed by a visa issue between the two nations and Paris' refusal to recognise or back Morocco's intentions for autonomy.
According to experts, tensions between France and Morocco began in the context of the 2022 presidential race, when security discourses and pledges to regulate and limit immigration were widespread. French President Emmanuel Macron has taken care of defending France against the perceived threat of migrants, notably Maghrebi migrants, who have been portrayed as terrorists, delinquents, and a threat to French identity.