In 1975, His Majesty King Hassan II led the historic Green March, uniting 350,000 Moroccans in a peaceful movement to reclaim the Sahara. This article takes you through the royal speech, the national unity, and the strategic role of the army—marking a legacy that still defines Morocco today.
His Majesty King Hassan II’s Historic Speech on the Green March
Agadir, November 5, 1975 – 1st Dhu al-Qi’dah 1395 AH
On the evening of November 5, 1975, His Majesty King Hassan II addressed the Moroccan nation from the city of Agadir, delivering a historic royal speech that would forever shape the destiny of Morocco. In this powerful address, he gave the official signal for the launch of the Green March, a peaceful movement aimed at reclaiming the Moroccan Sahara from Spanish occupation.
Quoting the Quranic verse, “If you resolve on a matter, then put your trust in God”, the King called on 350,000 Moroccan volunteers to peacefully march southward, supported by their faith, national unity, and historical rights. The speech emphasized non-violence, discipline, and fraternity, even calling for peaceful interaction with Spanish troops. This moment marked the beginning of one of the most iconic peaceful protests in world history, driven by patriotism and guided by royal vision.
A Nation United: When All of Morocco Became One Army
Across Morocco, October–November 1975
For the first time in Moroccan history, every region—from the northern mountains to the southern plains—rose as one. Tribes, villages, cities, youth, elders, men, and women responded to His Majesty King Hassan II’s call, becoming a symbolic and peaceful “army” of citizens with a shared goal: the reunification of Moroccan land.
Volunteers from all over the Kingdom, including around 10% women, registered in local offices, boarded trains and buses, and gathered in Agadir, Tantan, and Tarfaya, forming a massive human wave of peace and resolve. This mass mobilization demonstrated that the Green March was not just a political strategy—it was a people’s movement, crossing cultural and regional divides and uniting Moroccans under one flag, one cause, and one King.
The Role of the Royal Armed Forces in the Success of the March
Behind the peaceful façade of the Green March stood a formidable logistical operation, masterfully coordinated by the Royal Armed Forces under the guidance of His Majesty King Hassan II. The military’s role was not combat, but organization, support, and protection.
Over 7,800 trucks, 1,200 buses, and 23,000 tons of water were mobilized to transport and sustain the marchers. Medical teams, including 70 doctors and paramedics, were on standby. Air Force units patrolled from above, while Royal Gendarmerie units ensured safe passage on the ground. Participants traveled from remote cities like Tangier, Oujda, and Figuig, covering distances of over 1,500 km.
The army also coordinated the setup of temporary camps in Tan-Tan and Tarfaya, while the first waves arrived as early as October 23, 1975. This unprecedented operation stands as a model of civil-military cooperation—a march guided by faith, but made possible by structure, discipline, and loyalty to the Crown.
His Majesty King Hassan II’s Prayer on the Sacred Land of the Sahara
Jama’at Al-Tah, Southern Provinces – 1985
One of the most powerful symbolic moments in the history of the Green March came a decade later, when His Majesty King Hassan II performed prayer on the soil of the liberated Sahara in 1985, during an official royal visit to the southern provinces.
In Jama’at Al-Tah, the King led the prayer, standing not only as a sovereign but as Amir Al-Mouminin, affirming Morocco’s spiritual and historical bond with the region. This act served as both a religious and national confirmation of Morocco’s presence and sovereignty in the south, strengthening the emotional connection between the people, the land, and the Crown.
The 50th Anniversary of the Green March: Morocco Looks Ahead to 2025
Morocco – November 6, 2025
As Morocco prepares to commemorate 50 years since the Green March, the anniversary in 2025 stands as a moment of reflection, unity, and forward-looking ambition. The milestone will celebrate the legacy of King Hassan II, honor the spirit of national solidarity, and highlight Morocco’s modern progress, particularly in the southern provinces.
Alongside commemorations, Morocco is set to host the Africa Cup of Nations in late 2025—showcasing the nation’s stability, infrastructure, and growing diplomatic influence. This anniversary will not only revisit the Green March’s historic victory but also reaffirm Morocco’s commitment to development, diplomacy, and territorial integrity for the decades ahead.
The Green March was more than a moment—it was a movement shaped by the wisdom of His Majesty King Hassan II and the unwavering unity of the Moroccan people. As we approach the 50th anniversary in 2025, this legacy continues to inspire pride, progress, and patriotism. If this story moved you, share it with others and let us know your thoughts—your voice is part of Morocco’s living history.
