The recent opinion piece by Tahar Ben Jelloun, a Franco-Moroccan writer, published in the Spanish newspaper El País, has ignited significant controversy regarding the status of Ceuta and Melilla. In his column titled "Spain-Morocco, Overcoming the Crisis," Ben Jelloun advocates for Spain to "return" these two enclaves to Morocco, suggesting that such a gesture would be both historic and realistic. He argues that it is abnormal for the European border to be located within African territory, thereby complicating the already tense relationship between the two nations.
Ben Jelloun further posits that the recent crises on July 30 and 31 might have starkly highlighted the outdated nature of colonialism, calling for renewed dialogue and negotiations between Spain and Morocco. He emphasizes the cultural, economic, and political ties that bind the two neighbors, urging for a calm and rational discussion on the issue. However, his defense of the Moroccan regime under King Mohammed VI and his criticism of the Spanish right and far-right have led to backlash from various political factions in Spain.
In response to Ben Jelloun's assertions, the Popular Party has expressed strong disapproval, asserting that Ceuta and Melilla are integral parts of Spain and that defending their sovereignty is not merely a question of realism, but a matter of upholding the rights of their Spanish citizens. The party has publicly voiced disbelief that such sentiments could be published in a prominent Spanish newspaper, calling the article a "barbarity" that challenges the very essence of Spanish sovereignty.
Critics have also labeled Ben Jelloun's arguments as fallacious, suggesting they align with the propaganda of the Moroccan regime, which seeks to promote an expansionist agenda known as "Greater Morocco." This ambitious project aims to annex not only Ceuta and Melilla but also other territories including the islet of Perejil, Western Sahara, the Canary Islands, Mauritania, and parts of Mali. The publication of such pro-Moroccan and anti-Spanish sentiments in a respected Spanish outlet raises serious questions about editorial decisions in light of such a critical geopolitical issue.
As reported by libertaddigital.com.
