Morocco-Spain tension escalates over Ceuta and Melilla sovereignty claims

The political storm triggered by Morocco’s recent remarks on the status of Ceuta and Melilla shows no sign of abating in Madrid. Statements by Moroccan Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi have reignited a fierce debate in Spain, especially following the mass migration influx toward Ceuta late last month.

Jaime de los Santos

Spanish opposition demands action from government over Moroccan remarks

Spain’s Popular Party (PP) has seized on these remarks, calling for the immediate summoning of Morocco’s ambassador to Madrid for official consultations. PP lawmaker Jaime de los Santos, speaking in Barcelona, drew parallels with Madrid’s swift reaction to Italy’s recent suspension of the Schengen agreement. He questioned why similar measures had not been taken against Morocco, given the scale of migration at Ceuta’s border and Ouahbi’s sovereignty claims, both of which, in his view, warranted a firm response.

PP escalates pressure with parliamentary questions

The PP has escalated its demands, submitting written questions to the Spanish Congress of Deputies. The party is demanding a detailed explanation from the Minister of the Presidency and Justice, Félix Bolaños, regarding all exchanges with his Moroccan counterpart since the migration crisis began two weeks ago. It also seeks clarification on the government’s response to Ouahbi’s statements about the enclaves’ status.

Another concern raised by the PP is the alleged threat from Rabat to suspend the extradition treaty between Morocco and Spain. The treaty is seen by the party as critical for managing the return of individuals who breached the border fence.

Diplomatic tug-of-war intensifies

The dispute shows no signs of resolution as Spain’s opposition seeks to weaponize the diplomatic row against the government of Pedro Sánchez. Thus far, the executive has refrained from adopting the hardline stance demanded by the right-wing party, leaving the door open for further escalation.