Israel Links Recognition of Morocco's Sovereignty Over Western Sahara to Hosting the Negev Forum

Israel linked its anticipated decision to recognize Morocco's sovereignty over the Western Sahara region to the hosting of the long-delayed Negev Forum by Rabat. Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen stated, "We are currently working on this issue, and our plan is to make our final decision at the Negev Forum," noting that "Morocco is expected to host the forum next September." Diplomatic sources indicated that "Morocco might establish full relations with Israel by upgrading its current mid-level diplomatic missions to embassies in exchange for Israeli recognition of Morocco's claim over the Sahara."