Moroccan Monarchy Faces Instability Amid Health Crisis and Unrest

The rule of King Muhammad VI is facing severe instability driven by the monarch's failing health, economic neglect, and political repression. This crisis reached a peak during the July 30 Throne Day celebrations, when more than 70,000 Moroccans attempted to flee to the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. The resulting chaos led to approximately 100 deaths.

Internal power struggles have emerged within the makhzen, the Moroccan state apparatus. Fouad Ali el-Himma, the king's chief adviser, is currently locked in a conflict with the designated successor, Prince Hassan, and the prince's mother, Princess Salma. Reports indicate that Princess Salma has been kept under quasi-house arrest by el-Himma.

Diplomatic relations with Spain have deteriorated over the protection of a whistleblower codenamed Safir. A former officer of the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance, Safir allegedly leaked evidence that Morocco used Israeli spyware to conduct illegal surveillance. These political tensions are compounded by widespread public frustration over high youth unemployment and a failing education system.