Moroccan King calls for "no sacrifices this year"

King Mohammed VI's message to the public regarding the issue of not sacrificing animals this year was read on state television by Moroccan Minister of Religious Affairs and Endowments Ahmed al-Tawfik.

In the message of King Mohammed VI, it was stated that the country was experiencing climatic and economic difficulties, and that this situation had led to a significant decrease in animal population.

In the message, it was stated that in this context, sacrificing an animal is a strong Sunnah that must be fulfilled whenever possible, and it was pointed out that performing this act of worship under current difficulties could pose a great burden, especially for low-income segments of society.

In the message, which called on the public to refrain from sacrificing animals this year in line with the responsibility incumbent upon them as the country's administration and the obligation to facilitate religious duties, it was stated that King Mohammed VI would perform this act of worship on behalf of the Moroccan people.

The message also stated that Eid al-Adha will be celebrated with its usual spiritual meanings and requirements.

In Morocco, the practice of sacrificing animals was waived three times before: in 1963, 1981 and 1996, when the public was asked to give up sacrificing animals.