Morocco has taken a stern stance against recent youth-led protests, charging over 2,400 individuals in what has become one of the country’s most significant anti-government movements in years. The demonstrations, organized by the Gen Z 212 movement, initially aimed to highlight the government’s neglect of public services while prioritizing infrastructure for sporting events. However, the protests escalated into violence in several cities, resulting in three deaths, numerous injuries, and property damage. Authorities responded with mass arrests, with 1,473 people remaining in custody pending trial on charges ranging from armed rebellion to inciting felonies and assaulting public officials. Human rights groups have condemned the government’s heavy-handed approach, labeling the arrests as arbitrary and excessive. The Moroccan Association for Human Rights and Gen Z 212 have called for the immediate release of all detainees. Among those arrested is Hamza Raid, a politically outspoken rapper whose lyrics resonate with the frustrations of Moroccan youth. In a recent court hearing, three individuals faced charges for printing activist slogans on soccer jerseys, potentially facing up to five years in prison. The public prosecutor reported that over 400 people have already been sentenced, with terms ranging from one to 15 years, while 34 were acquitted. The crackdown has intensified tensions, with protesters now rallying for the release of those arrested, further fueling the movement’s momentum.