BySTACY LIBERATORE, US SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY EDITOR
Published:12:23 EST, 17 February 2026|Updated:15:30 EST, 17 February 2026
Shocking images and reports of dogs being killed in Morocco have drawn global scrutiny of a campaignlinked to the country's 2030 World Cup preparations.
The North African nation was confirmed in 2023 as a co-host alongsideSpainand Portugal, a decision that animal rights groups claim has coincided with a widespread cull of strays across Moroccan cities.
Activists have said the alleged effort aims to make cities and tourist hotspots appear cleaner and safer, as well as more appealing to international visitors, fans, and media, in an attempt to avoid negative perceptions associated with strays.
An estimated three million stray dogs live on Morocco's streets.
Animal welfare organizations have released images and testimony alleging Moroccan authorities are using harsh methods, including clamping dogs by the neck, loading them into trucks and poisoning or shooting them before disposing of their bodies in mass graves.
A report published last month described Marrakech, expected to host World Cup matches, as a 'kill center,' where canines were transported in white vans and processed in warehouse facilities fitted with meat hooks and washable flooring.
Witnesses in other host cities alleged that dogs were starved for days before being burned alive at rubbish depots.
The International Animal Welfare and Protection Coalition (IAWPC) said Morocco has a pattern of large-scale animal killings ahead of major international events, arguing that organizations like FIFA are not issuing orders but are effectively enabling the practice.
Source: Drudge Report
