##  Israel Loosens Grip on Gaza, Agrees to Aid Airdrops Amidst Famine Fears

**Thousands of Palestinians face growing hunger as conflict rages.**

Israeli authorities announced Saturday they will allow the resumption of food airdrops to Gaza and designate humanitarian corridors for UN aid convoys. The move comes as a desperate attempt to alleviate a looming famine crisis in the besieged territory, where over 50 Palestinians were killed in Israeli strikes and shootings Saturday, some while waiting near aid distribution centers.

**International Pressure Mounts:**

The decision follows international pressure from nations like the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Britain, who pledged to assist with aid deliveries. The UAE announced it would immediately resume airdrops, calling the humanitarian situation in Gaza "critical and unprecedented." British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also vowed to work with Jordan on restarting airdrops and evacuating children needing medical assistance. 

**A Controversial Solution:**

While Israel claims this will improve the humanitarian situation and disprove "false claims of deliberate starvation,"  humanitarian experts remain skeptical about the effectiveness of airdrops. They argue that the method is expensive, inefficient, and could even endanger starving civilians.  UNRWA head Philippe Lazzarini stated, “Airdrops will not reverse the deepening starvation…They are expensive, inefficient and can even kill starving civilians.”

Humanitarian organizations continue to demand that Israel allow more overland convoys for effective aid delivery.


**Ongoing Conflict:**

This announcement comes amidst a protracted conflict that began in October 2023 after a Hamas attack resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people, most civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures. The Israeli military campaign has since killed 59,733 Palestinians, largely civilians, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry.


 **Naval Blockade Defied:**

In a separate development, Israeli forces boarded a pro-Palestinian activist vessel attempting to reach Gaza from the sea, defying an ongoing naval blockade. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition, operating the Handala boat, had its live feed cut as Israeli soldiers moved in. This incident follows last month's interception of another vessel run by the same group, the Madleen.

The conflict continues to escalate, with both sides engaged in a deadly struggle amidst growing international pressure for a humanitarian solution. 


##  Israel Loosens Grip on Gaza, Agrees to Aid Airdrops Amidst Famine Fears

**Thousands of Palestinians face growing hunger as conflict rages.**

Israeli autho

Israel allows aid air dops to Gaza to resume

## Moroccan Real Estate Market Faces Steep Decline: Sales Plummet, Experts Sound Alarm

**Slowdown Impacts Transactions, Prices Remain Largely Stagnant**

Morocco's real estate sector is experiencing a significant slowdown, with official data revealing a dramatic drop in property sales and transactions during the first quarter of 2025.  The "Real Estate Asset Price Index," a joint report by the National Land Registry Agency and Bank Al-Maghrib, indicates a 30.3% decrease in total transactions, reflecting a 29.3% decline in residential property sales alone.

While annual real estate prices have remained largely stagnant, with only a minor 0.1% increase in residential property values, prices for urban land dropped by 0.1%, and commercial property values dipped by 0.3%.  Transactions across all categories also saw significant declines—residential (14.5%), urban land (16.4%), and commercial properties (18.2%).

**Government Subsidy Program Criticized for Limited Impact**

Industry professionals are calling for a review of the government's direct housing subsidy program, launched in early 2024.  Despite exceeding 177,000 registered requests, only 55,000 applicants have been approved as of July, according to updated government data.


**Developers Cite "Deep and Persistent Crisis," Point to Rising Costs and Regulatory Challenges**

Anis Benjelloun, vice president of the National Federation of Real Estate Developers (FNPI), described the downturn as a "deep and persistent crisis." 

"The latest figures from the Real Estate Asset Index are alarming and should serve as a wake-up call,”  Benjelloun stated. “These aren’t just complaints from developers — the data comes from credible public institutions like Bank Al-Maghrib and the land registry.” 

He emphasized that key indicators for developers, such as housing units under construction and officially completed, have dropped considerably. Benjelloun attributed the slump partly to rising project costs and soaring prices of construction materials, noting that cement sales, while potentially reflecting some construction activity, are not reliable indicators of actual property sales or housing productivity. Labor costs have also surged by more than 30%, partly due to workers shifting towards government infrastructure projects following a rebound in the agriculture sector.

**Expert Highlights Tax Processing Delays and Supply-Demand Imbalance**

Real estate expert Amine Mernissi pointed to several overlapping issues exacerbating the slowdown. He cited recent confusion surrounding the processing of tax clearance certificates by notaries through the “Tawtique+” platform, stemming from the implementation of Law No. 14.25, which amended legislation on local taxes. 

"Property transactions have suffered significantly in recent months due to delays in processing tax-related documentation for property transfers,” Mernissi stated. Technical disruptions, data breaches, and platform hacks have also discouraged digital transactions, adding further uncertainty.


**Call for Government Action: Land Allocation and Regional Housing Agencies**

Despite the challenges, Mernissi highlighted that underlying demand remains strong, signaling potential for recovery. He noted the uneven demand for subsidized housing, particularly the 300,000 MAD category in cities like Fez, which leads in applications. He also pointed to difficulties accessing land around major urban areas due to high prices and weak purchasing power among many citizens.

Mernissi urged the state to allocate public land specifically for real estate development and accelerate the implementation of the recently approved law on regional housing and urban development agencies.  These agencies, he believes, are essential for mobilizing land and coordinating local development efforts. 





## Moroccan Real Estate Market Faces Steep Decline: Sales Plummet, Experts Sound Alarm

**Slowdown Impacts Transactions, Prices Remain Largely Stagnant**

Moroc

Morocco’s real estate market struggles amid prolonged slowdo

Morocco’s real estate market struggles amid prolonged slowdown in sales and transactions

## **Detainee Alive: Moroccan Prison Authority Slams "Death" Video**

**Online claims of an officer's demise at Aïn Sebaa prison debunked.**

The General Delegation for Prison Administration and Reintegration (DGAPR) vehemently refuted online allegations surrounding the death of a police officer detained in Aïn Sebaa prison. 

A video posted by an individual residing abroad falsely claimed the death of the detainee, identified as A.Q., while incarcerated.  

"The detainee mentioned in the video is alive and currently held at Arjat 2 prison," a DGAPR statement clarified. A.Q. is serving an 18-month sentence for charges including complicity in affront against public officials, affront against a body governed by law, and complicity in disseminating false statements via computer systems for defamation purposes.

The original video claimed the individual was sentenced to five years, a figure the DGAPR directly refuted. 

The DGAPR further condemned the dissemination of such misinformation, labeling it as part of a broader campaign aimed at damaging Morocco's image and defaming its institutions. "This systematic targeting serves hostile agendas," the statement emphasized. 




## **Detainee Alive: Moroccan Prison Authority Slams "Death" Video**

**Online claims of an officer's demise at Aïn Sebaa prison debunked.**

The General Delega

Morocco’s Prison Authority Denies Allegations of Detainee’s 

Morocco’s Prison Authority Denies Allegations of Detainee’s Death in Online Video

##  Morocco Embraces "New Model of Justice" with Alternative Sentencing Law

**Decree Grants Prison Administration Authority, Shifting Focus from Punishment to Rehabilitation**

In a significant step towards criminal justice reform, the Moroccan government has approved a decree empowering the General Delegation for Prison Administration and Reintegration to implement the country's new alternative sentencing law. The landmark legislation, set to come into force at the end of August, aims to reduce prison overcrowding and shift the focus from punishment to rehabilitation.

The decree, No. 2.25.638, was presented by Digital Transition and Administrative Reform Minister Delegate Amal Falah during the government council's weekly meeting on Thursday. This measure grants the prison authority full responsibility for executing the alternative sentencing law, a move described as a "significant advancement in human rights and criminal justice reform."

"This law marks a clear commitment to human rights and introduces a rehabilitative focus in criminal justice," stated Government Spokesperson Mustapha Baitas at a post-cabinet press briefing.  He emphasized that this new model of justice is inspired by royal directives to humanize the system and reduce prison overcrowding.

**Offering Alternatives to Incarceration:**

Beginning at the end of August, courts will be able to offer eligible defendants alternative sentencing options such as electronic monitoring and community service. These measures are designed to reintegrate offenders into society while still meeting the objectives of justice, Baitas explained.  He stressed that these alternatives are aimed at helping offenders rehabilitate and reintegrate without undermining public safety or victims' rights.

**Balancing Reform with Security:**

To ensure a balance between reform and security concerns, the law limits eligibility to misdemeanors and excludes serious crimes such as embezzlement, bribery, abuse of power, drug trafficking, human trafficking, organ trade, and the sexual exploitation of minors. Repeat offenders are also excluded from benefiting from the law's provisions.

**International Alignment:**

Baitas noted that this legislative reform responds to recommendations from international human rights organizations, including the United Nations, aligning Morocco’s legal system with global standards on justice and detainee rights. 


"The law is a vital step toward a more modern, rights-based penal policy and will help reduce prison overcrowding by offering structured alternatives for less severe offenses," Baitas concluded. 


##  Morocco Embraces "New Model of Justice" with Alternative Sentencing Law

**Decree Grants Prison Administration Authority, Shifting Focus from Punishment to 

Morocco approves decree granting prison administration autho

Morocco approves decree granting prison administration authority to enforce alternative sentencing law

## Morocco: A Beacon of Nuclear Expertise in Africa

**IAEA Director General hails Moroccan leadership in peaceful applications of nuclear technology.**

Morocco has earned international recognition as a powerhouse of scientific expertise and solidarity, particularly in the field of nuclear energy. Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), praised Morocco's contributions during an interview on the occasion of the 26th Throne Day celebrations.  He attributed this success to the numerous reforms spearheaded by King Mohammed VI, a staunch advocate for South-South cooperation.

### "A Center of Excellence" Supporting African Nations

Grossi lauded Morocco's active role within the IAEA, highlighting its exemplary work in promoting peaceful nuclear applications both domestically and across Africa. 

“Morocco is a center of excellence in Africa and a valuable cooperation channel for countries with fewer resources,” he stated, emphasizing the technical and institutional support the Kingdom provides to other African member states.

The IAEA Director General further recognized Morocco as "a reliable partner" and "a significant player" within the Agency's governing bodies. He specifically pointed to Morocco's successful presidency of the General Conference in 2020, where it effectively facilitated compromise among diverse nations.

###  A Hub for Regional Integration and Training

Morocco stands out for its “very significant” technical expertise in various nuclear applications, including health, environment, agriculture, and potentially energy. Grossi also praised Morocco's pioneering role as a regional hub for training and skills transfer, emphasizing the presence of numerous African trainees and experts at the National Center for Energy, Sciences and Nuclear Techniques (CNESTEN).

“Morocco combines our capacities with its own, in a spirit of cooperation that perfectly reflects its Pan-African tradition of solidarity,” Grossi said, advocating against isolated projects and commending Morocco's efforts as a platform for regional integration.


###  Concrete Achievements Drive Sustainable Development

The IAEA chief highlighted Morocco’s tangible accomplishments within the framework of technical cooperation, including advancements in radiotherapy, nuclear medicine, water management, and climate-adapted agriculture. He also cited collaborations in isotopic hydrology, a nuclear technique that optimizes water use in agriculture and overall water management.

Furthermore, Grossi recognized Morocco's active participation in two flagship IAEA programs: "Rays of Hope" for cancer treatment and "Atoms for Food" for developing drought-resistant crops.


**Morocco’s commitment to sustainable development aligns perfectly with the IAEA's goals.**  Grossi expressed deep appreciation for King Mohammed VI's leadership in emphasizing harmonious and sustainable development, praising the clear vision for progress evident in health, agriculture, and scientific reforms.   


## Morocco: A Beacon of Nuclear Expertise in Africa

**IAEA Director General hails Moroccan leadership in peaceful applications of nuclear technology.**

Morocc

IAEA Chief Labels Morocco as Provider of Expertise, Scientif

IAEA Chief Labels Morocco as Provider of Expertise, Scientific Solidarity

## Brace Yourself: Morocco's Heat Is Rising

**Temperatures Set to Climb, But No Full-Blown Heatwave Expected**

After a week of comfortable weather across much of Morocco, get ready for some warmer days ahead. 

The national weather service confirms a noticeable increase in temperatures starting Friday, particularly in inland regions.  Khalid El Ghaz, head of general forecasting at the General Directorate of Meteorology, told local media, “Our country will experience a noticeable increase in temperatures starting Friday, particularly in the inland areas.” He cautioned that some areas, including Tadla and Beni Mellal, could see temperatures soar up to 46 degrees Celsius (114.8°F).

Despite the anticipated rise, El Ghaz reassured the public that this heat spike does not constitute a severe heatwave like those experienced in late June or early July.  He stated, "This will not be a severe heatwave, so no warning bulletins have been issued." Adding, "Temperatures will decline afterward and return to near-seasonal averages.”

**Summer's Swings: What's Ahead for Morocco?**

While this weekend may bring scorching temperatures for some regions, meteorologists emphasize that overall, Morocco is expected to experience a summer marked by alternating hot and moderate spells.  El Ghaz attributed the current atmospheric conditions to the influence of air masses coming from the Atlantic Ocean, which help stabilize summer temperatures.

Looking ahead, El Ghaz addressed the upcoming “Ssmayem” period, known locally as the hottest stretch of the year,  which typically begins around July 25 and lasts through August. He explained that this phase is characterized by a Saharan thermal depression pushing hot air masses from the desert towards central and northern Morocco.

He also highlighted that Morocco already experienced a record-breaking heat episode in late June, especially in coastal regions, followed by a noticeable drop in temperatures to more usual levels. Current forecasts suggest continued fluctuations in temperature, alternating between periods of heat and cooler spells, but generally staying within normal summer conditions.

**Staying Safe Amidst the Heat**

The meteorological service has issued public health advice, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and residents of inland areas. Authorities are urging people to avoid sun exposure during peak hours and to stay well-hydrated. 




## Brace Yourself: Morocco's Heat Is Rising

**Temperatures Set to Climb, But No Full-Blown Heatwave Expected**

After a week of comfortable weather across much

Moroccan weather agency: Upcoming temperature increases not 

Moroccan weather agency: Upcoming temperature increases not severe

## YouTuber Jailed for Defaming Moroccan Judge

**Montreal Court Hands Down Sentence in High-Profile Defamation Case**


A Montreal courtroom delivered a significant verdict Thursday, sentencing Moroccan YouTuber Hicham Jerando to one month in jail, 150 hours of community service, and a fine of 10,000 Canadian dollars. The sentence stems from a defamation lawsuit filed by Moroccan judge Abdelrahim Hanin against Jerando.

The Quebec Superior Court found Jerando guilty of spreading false accusations and damaging Judge Hanin's reputation through a series of YouTube videos. This ruling is being celebrated as a victory for Judge Hanin and a clear affirmation of legal protections against digital defamation.


**A Pattern of Controversial Content**

Jerando, a Moroccan national residing in Canada, has been embroiled in controversy for his inflammatory online content targeting Moroccan officials and institutions.  He initially arrived in Canada as an immigrant, pursuing various business ventures before transitioning to YouTube where he gained notoriety for controversial videos. 

This recent case is not Jerando's first legal battle. He has faced previous absentee rulings both in Morocco and abroad for similar offenses. In a separate instance, Canadian courts convicted him for defaming Moroccan lawyer Adel Said Al-Mutairi.  


**Digital Defamation Raises Concerns**

Jerando's actions have drawn widespread criticism from legal experts and members of the Moroccan diaspora who warn about the escalating misuse of digital platforms to spread misinformation and erode public trust in legal institutions. 

This court decision highlights the growing global trend of international courts holding online content creators accountable for cross-border defamation and hate speech.




## YouTuber Jailed for Defaming Moroccan Judge

**Montreal Court Hands Down Sentence in High-Profile Defamation Case**


A Montreal courtroom delivered a signif

Quebec court sentences Moroccan YouTuber Hicham Jerando for 

Quebec court sentences Moroccan YouTuber Hicham Jerando for defamation of judge

## Drones Take Flight Against Real Estate Speculation in Casablanca Industrial Zones

**Investigation Targets Dozens of Idle Plots, Uncovering Millions in Potential Speculative Gains**

Moroccan authorities are cracking down on real estate speculation within Casablanca's industrial zones. Utilizing drones to monitor dozens of reportedly idle land plots, the urban agency, in partnership with the Interior Ministry, is investigating how beneficiaries secured industrial parcels at preferential rates before reselling or leasing them for profit.

**Millions at Stake: Speculation Stalls Investment Climate**

Early findings, backed by chambers of commerce reports, indicate millions of dirhams in potential speculative gains and a hindering investment climate, particularly within the Casablanca-Settat region. The probe delves into project delays and denied permits, with regional officials receiving clear directives to address pending investor grievances. 

 **Tough New Laws Target Inactive Landholders**

Authorities are enforcing Law 102.21, which mandates land usage within specific timeframes and imposes penalties for violations, including contract termination. The Ministry of Industry previously pledged legal action against inactive landholders. This stringent approach aims to revitalize the industrial zones and encourage genuine investment. 




## Drones Take Flight Against Real Estate Speculation in Casablanca Industrial Zones

**Investigation Targets Dozens of Idle Plots, Uncovering Millions in Poten

Drones deployed to track idle industrial lots in Casablanca 

## Morocco Pledges Green Support for Africa's Future

**Tangier -  Morocco Reasserts Commitment to Sustainable Development at Regional Green Economy Forum** 


Morocco's Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leila Benali, has reaffirmed the Kingdom's dedication to supporting African nations in building a green, resilient, and prosperous future. Speaking at the opening of the first Regional Green Economy Forum (RGEF) held in Tangier under the High Patronage of HM King Mohammed VI, Benali emphasized Morocco's unwavering commitment "in order to meet the aspirations of its people and preserve the rights of current and future generations."

The forum, themed "Empowering African Cities: Paving the Path to Carbon Neutrality," highlights Morocco's position as a leader in South-South cooperation.  Benali highlighted several pioneering initiatives launched by Morocco in Africa, including the creation of three African climate commissions during COP22 in Marrakech, marking a significant milestone for continental climate action.


"The transition to a green economy is no longer merely a development option but an urgent and strategic necessity," stated Benali, underscoring the urgency for addressing challenges like climate change, vulnerability, natural resource depletion, and geopolitical fluctuations.

**Morocco's Ambitious Green Strategy**

At the national level, Morocco has implemented an ambitious path towards sustainability, making it a core pillar of public policy and national development. The National Sustainable Development Strategy serves as a framework for integrating sustainability principles into sectoral and territorial planning, aiming for an inclusive, resilient green economy by 2035.

Morocco's integrated energy strategy focuses on renewable energy development, enhanced energy efficiency across sectors, and strengthened regional integration. Currently, renewables account for over 45% of Morocco’s installed electricity capacity, with the country on track to reach its 2030 goal of 52%.  Additional initiatives include six integrated sectoral decarbonization plans, an updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) aiming for a 53% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035, and a national circular economy roadmap scheduled for completion this year.

**Regional Collaboration for Sustainable Development**


The two-day RGEF, organized with support from the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, the Regional Council of Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima, and UCLG-Africa, aims to foster African efforts towards low-carbon, sustainable urban development. It seeks to strengthen cooperation among local, national, and international actors, encourage the sharing of experiences and best practices, and promote investment in green infrastructure, renewable energy, and sustainable mobility.

The forum's opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures including the President of WGEO, regional officials, UN representatives, UCLG-Africa Secretary-General, and numerous experts in the field.




## Morocco Pledges Green Support for Africa's Future

**Tangier -  Morocco Reasserts Commitment to Sustainable Development at Regional Green Economy Forum** 




Minister Benali: Morocco committed to join African action fo

Minister Benali: Morocco committed to join African action for a green, prosperous future

## **Morocco Races Towards Digital Transformation: 5G Rollout and Expanded Telecom Coverage**

**Casablanca** – Moroccan Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch emphasized the nation's dedication to digital transformation during a meeting with the National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT) on Friday. Akhannouch underscored the crucial role of telecommunications in national development, particularly in bridging digital and regional divides.

### **Bridging the Gap: Expanding Access for All**

“The full expansion of telecom networks across the kingdom, especially in mountainous and remote regions, can no longer be delayed,” stated Akhannouch. He urged the agency to identify underserved areas and collaborate with both public and private sectors to ensure quality communication services reach every citizen. 

Key outcomes from the meeting include a national survey to map underserved regions and develop a structured program for comprehensive telecom coverage. The agency also announced the imminent rollout of 5G technology nationwide, aiming to bolster network performance and support Morocco's economic and social progress.

### **Leading the Way: Morocco's Telecom Success Story**

ANRT Director General Az El Arab Hassibi presented a detailed overview of the sector's growth, highlighting that Morocco boasts 57 million mobile subscribers and nearly 40 million internet users, achieving an impressive 90% internet penetration rate. This contrasts sharply with Africa’s average internet access of just 37%, showcasing Morocco's significant lead in digital connectivity.

The International Telecommunication Union's 2025 rankings further solidify Morocco's position as a leader on the continent, ranking it first in ICT development according to the ICT Development Index (IDI).


### **Sustaining Momentum: Investing in the Future**

To maintain this progress, the agency plans to update the National Frequency Plan (PNF) to align with technological advancements and socio-economic growth. Continued expansion of high-speed internet access and fiber optic networks across the country will also be prioritized.

The ambitious 5G rollout, with a total investment of 80 billion dirhams (approximately $8 billion), is scheduled to commence by the end of 2025 in several cities. The government aims to extend 5G coverage to 85% of the population by 2030, solidifying Morocco's commitment to becoming a digital powerhouse. 


## **Morocco Races Towards Digital Transformation: 5G Rollout and Expanded Telecom Coverage**

**Casablanca** – Moroccan Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch emph

Morocco to roll out 5G, expand telecom coverage with investm

Morocco to roll out 5G, expand telecom coverage with investments reaching MAD80 billion

##  Israeli Forces Seize Gaza-Bound Activist Vessel Amidst Live Stream

**"Bella Ciao" Echoes as Troops Take Control of Handala Boat**

A tense standoff unfolded Saturday as Israeli troops boarded the Handala, a vessel sailing to Gaza under the banner of the pro-Palestinian activist group Freedom Flotilla. A live stream broadcast by the group captured the scene, showing activists seated on deck, hands raised in surrender while whistling "Bella Ciao," an iconic Italian anti-fascist anthem. 

Minutes later, three online video feeds broadcasting the event were abruptly cut.  


##  Israeli Forces Seize Gaza-Bound Activist Vessel Amidst Live Stream

**"Bella Ciao" Echoes as Troops Take Control of Handala Boat**

A tense standoff unfolde

Israeli troops seen boarding Gaza-bound activist boat

## **Morocco Swelters Under Intense Heatwave**

**Temperatures Soar to 48°C in Some Regions, Orange Alert Issued**

Morocco is bracing for a severe heatwave this weekend and into early next week, with scorching temperatures expected across several regions. The national meteorological service has issued an orange-level alert warning of extreme conditions.

**Desert Regions Hit Hardest**

The provinces of Zagora, Tata, Assa-Zag, Smara, Boujdour, Oued Eddahab, and Aousserd are set to experience the most intense heat, with temperatures reaching between 45 and 48°C. 

**Central Regions Also Feeling the Heat**

In a separate orange-level alert, the meteorological service warned of hot weather ranging from 42 to 44°C on Sunday and Monday across Fquih Ben Salah, El Kelaa des Sraghna, and Marrakech.

**Vulnerable Populations Urged to Take Precautions**

The Directorate urged residents in affected areas to take necessary precautions, especially vulnerable populations, as heat-related risks increase sharply during such conditions. 




## **Morocco Swelters Under Intense Heatwave**

**Temperatures Soar to 48°C in Some Regions, Orange Alert Issued**

Morocco is bracing for a severe heatwave thi

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