Moroccan officials are facing international criticism after reports emerged that millions of stray dogs are being killed ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Organizations including the International Animal Welfare and Protection Coalition (IAWPC) and PETA claim that roughly three million dogs have been targeted.

According to the Daily Mail, animal rights groups allege officials are using extreme methods such as clamping dogs by the neck, transporting them in trucks, and either poisoning or shooting them before disposing of the bodies. The IAWPC submitted a 91-page dossier to FIFA containing photographs and testimony documenting poisonings, forced starvation, and shootings, stating that the culling increased sharply after Morocco was confirmed as one of the tournament hosts.

Catie Cryar, a PETA spokesperson, accused Moroccan authorities of openly poisoning, shooting, and burning dogs alive to “clean up” ahead of the event. She said tens of thousands of PETA supporters have called on FIFA to reconsider Morocco’s hosting rights unless the killings stop.

A FIFA spokesperson said that Morocco emphasized its commitment to animal welfare during the World Cup bid and that the organization is “following up with its local counterparts with the aim of ensuring commitments are upheld.” The Moroccan Embassy in London denied that any cull is taking place.

The allegations have sparked widespread outrage among animal rights groups, who argue that the treatment of stray dogs raises serious ethical concerns.