The United Arab Emirates on Tuesday strongly condemned the terrorist plots recently thwarted by Moroccan security forces, affirming its complete solidarity with the nation. The condemnation came in an official statement from Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, who denounced the plans designed to seriously undermine public order and threaten the safety of individuals and property.
Morocco Arrests 10 ISIL-Linked Suspects
Morocco on Monday announced the arrest of 10 members of a cell linked to the ISIL affiliate in Sahel Province (ISSP), foiling a planned attack, according to Al Jazeera. The Central Bureau of Judicial Investigations, Morocco's chief counterterrorism agency, conducted raids across several cities, seizing bladed weapons, military-style clothing, bomb-making instructions, digital material, chemicals, and a car suspected to have been modified for bombing or ramming attacks. A warehouse used by the cell contained butane gas cylinders and pressure cookers filled with nails and electrically wired. Police stated the group's plans were in an advanced stage of preparation.
UAE Officials Express Strong Condemnation
The UAE foreign ministry statement read: "His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, expressed the UAE's strong condemnation and denunciation of the terrorist plots that were thwarted in the brotherly Kingdom of Morocco." According to the statement, these plots involved logistical coordination with a branch of the Daesh terrorist organisation operating in the Sahel region. "These plots aimed to seriously undermine public order and the safety of individuals and property, and were coordinated with logistical support from a branch of the terrorist Daesh organization in the Sahel region," it added.
UAE Reaffirms Full Solidarity with Morocco
In his message of support, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed reaffirmed the UAE's unwavering backing of all measures taken by Morocco to safeguard its national security and stability, ensure the safety of its citizens and residents, and protect its national achievements. He commended the efficiency and vigilance of the Moroccan security services, which were instrumental in successfully thwarting the plots and identifying those involved. "His Highness affirmed the UAE's full solidarity with the brotherly Kingdom of Morocco, standing by its side in all measures it takes to protect its security and stability, ensure the safety of its citizens and residents on its territory, and safeguard its national achievements. He praised the efficiency and vigilance of the Moroccan security services, which succeeded in thwarting these plots and uncovering their members," the statement read.
Call for Regional and International Cooperation
Emphasising the UAE's categorical rejection of all forms of terrorism and extremism, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the necessity of enhanced regional and international cooperation to confront and address threats that jeopardise the stability of nations. "His Highness stressed the UAE's categorical rejection of all forms of terrorism and extremism, and everything that threatens the security and stability of countries. He emphasized the importance of strengthening regional and international cooperation to confront these threats and address them," the statement added.
