Call for Action on Ceuta's Migration Situation
Federico Trillo, the former Minister of Defense, has made a compelling case for the declaration of a state of exception in Ceuta, arguing that such a measure would facilitate the expulsion of "all illegal invaders, regardless of whether they are minors." Trillo insists that this drastic step is necessary to hold Morocco accountable in international forums, including the United Nations and European courts, particularly in light of the more than 150 fatalities that have occurred due to the massive influx of migrants since the end of July.
In an interview with Europa Press, Trillo criticized the current Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, suggesting that he exhibits a "Stockholm syndrome" by being "in the hands of his captors" and adopting the narrative of those who seem to have him cornered. Trillo noted that Sánchez's account of events has been met with skepticism, even from his own parliamentary allies, indicating that "no one believes him." He attributed the chaos to Morocco's involvement, referencing the repeated assertions from Moroccan ministers regarding their ambitions concerning Ceuta and Melilla, which Trillo claims indicate that the recent assault was both planned and continues to be orchestrated.
Need for International Accountability
When discussing the current relationship with Morocco, Trillo emphasized two critical points. Firstly, he believes that the Spanish government must react decisively by declaring a state of exception in Ceuta, which would enable the expulsion of all individuals who have entered illegally. This constitutional mechanism is invoked in cases of severe public disorder and allows the state to limit rights and assume extraordinary powers to address circumstances that exceed normality. Secondly, he stressed the importance of demanding international accountability from Morocco at various global forums, including the UN, the European Union, and international judicial bodies, as a response to the significant loss of life. He asserted that these deaths are the direct responsibility of Morocco and should not be overlooked, calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic events.
Trillo also underscored the crucial role of the judiciary in investigating these matters, suggesting that the recent events in Ceuta may warrant scrutiny of Sánchez himself by the Supreme Court. He praised the efforts of the National Court judge in charge of the investigation and recognized the suggestion made by the leader of the PP, Alberto Núñez Feijóo, to place the issue in the hands of the judiciary, emphasizing that the situation constitutes a crime against Spain's external security.
Moreover, Trillo pointed out that the Spanish authorities had failed to anticipate the invasion, despite intelligence reports from the National Intelligence Center (CNI) and security forces that indicated the likelihood of such an event. He argued that this situation warrants judicial scrutiny, given the high human cost involved. Trillo voiced concerns about the current government's accountability, suggesting that Sánchez is under some form of pressure that leads him to deny clear evidence of an organized invasion backed by Moroccan intelligence and military forces.
In a broader context, Trillo recalled that similar tactics were employed by Morocco in the past, referencing Donald Trump's comments about border issues during the recent NATO summit. He suggested that Morocco has historically utilized such "peaceful invasions" to achieve its objectives, drawing parallels with past events, such as the Green March.
Regarding the Minister of Defense, Margarita Robles, Trillo acknowledged her bravery in recognizing the truth, stating that the CNI had indeed provided pertinent information. He argued that if the intelligence service failed to uphold its credibility, it would be discredited in the eyes of foreign intelligence agencies. Conversely, he criticized the Interior Minister, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, for his inadequate handling of the situation, describing it as "absolutely unacceptable."
As for the potential visit by King Felipe VI to Ceuta, Trillo expressed that the king should go when deemed appropriate, reminding that in a parliamentary monarchy, the king must act with government approval. He believes that the visit should happen as soon as possible, particularly in light of the events that transpired in July, when ministers from Sánchez's cabinet attended a celebration for King Mohamed VI while the crisis unfolded.
As reported by eldebate.com.
