Moroccan King Who Saved Jewish Lives during Holocaust Nominated for Title "Righteous Among the Nations"
"Should Muhammad V be named Righteous Among the Nations, he would be the first Arab ever holding the title."
(Morocco)—A report in YNet News indicates that heads of the Jewish community in Morocco have initiated a move calling for Muhammad V of Morocco, who was king during World War II, to be named Righteous Among the Nations for his efforts of saving the Jews of his country. Serge Bardugo, head of the Moroccan Jewish community and roaming ambassador for King Muhammad VI of Morocco, is promoting the initiative. (Photo: Morocco—Ynet News)
According to the report, 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, the king reportedly risked his life, making him eligible for the title of Righteous Among the Nations.
"Should we receive clear-cut evidence in the matter, it will be investigated and the proper decision will be made," said Iris Rosenberg a spokesperson for Yad Vashem.
The report further notes that of 2,700 people awarded the title, 60 were Muslims, but, should Muhammad V be named Righteous Among the Nations, he would be the first Arab ever holding the title.
