Moroccan King Nominated for 'Righteous Among Nations' Title

Mighty cool, eh?

Heads of the Jewish community in Morocco have initiated a move calling for Muhammad V of Marocco, who was king during World War II, to be named Righteous Among the Nations for his efforts of saving the Jews of his country.

This initiative is being promoted by head of the Jewish community in Morocco, Serge Bardugo, who was recently appointed roaming ambassador by king Muhammad VI of Marocco..

Arriving in Israel earlier this week to attend President Shimon Peres' inauguration ceremony, Bardugo claimed he had testimonies of Jews who survived due to the king's decision not to implement the anti-Jewish race laws, or send Morocco's Jews to France, despite demands by Morocco's sovereign at the time, the pro-Nazi French government of Vichy.

By refusing the demands of the Vichy government, claimed Bardugo, the king risked his life, making him eligible for the title of Righteous Among the Nations.

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Since the establishment of Yad Vashem 21,700 people were awarded the title, 60 of whom were Muslims. Should Muhammad V be named Righteous Among the Nations, he would be the first Arab ever holding the title.