King Hassan II: Morocco's Messenger of Peace

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to examine the roles King Hassan II of Morocco played as a protector of the monarchy, a mediator between Israel and the Arab world and as an advocate for peace in the Arab world. Morocco's willingness to enter into an alliance with Israel guided the way for a mutually beneficial relationship that was cultivated for decades. King Hassan II was a key player in the development of relations between the Arab states and Israel. His actions illustrate a belief in peace throughout the Arab states and Israel and also improving conditions inside the Moroccan Kingdom. My research examines the motivation behind King Hassan II's actions, his empathy with the Israeli people, and his dedication to finding peace not only between the Arab states and Israel, but throughout the Arab world. Critics question the King's intentions in negotiating peace between Israel and the Arab states. My research will show that while establishing peace with Israel and protecting his throne was a long standing goal of the King, his peacemaking efforts and actions in the Arab-Israeli dispute demonstrate that he was a messenger of peace and an altruistic leader.