Overview
- In late July 2026 multiple international animal-welfare groups and news outlets published photos, videos and eyewitness accounts that they say show dead, shot, burned or disposed-of street dogs in cities including Rabat, Fes, Agadir, Casablanca, Marrakesh and Irfane.
- Verified footage reported by CNN and dpa and investigative reporting by The Athletic have added corroboration to the allegations, including claims of firearms purchases and killings tied to past events.
- The Moroccan Interior Ministry rejects claims of an organized cull and says the country runs a trap‑neuter‑vaccinate‑release program since 2019 and is building shelters and new legal protections for animals.
- A draft Moroccan animal‑protection law under discussion would criminalize intentional killing but would also impose penalties for feeding or treating street dogs, a provision that has alarmed rescuers and NGOs.
- FIFA says it is reviewing Morocco’s bid pledges and is working with the International Animal Welfare and Protection Coalition while campaigners press for an independent inquiry and possible sanctions.