Fulgencio Coll, the former chief of staff of the Spanish army, has leveled serious accusations against Morocco, alleging that the massive influx of migrants into Ceuta was strategically used as a weapon against Spain. In a revealing interview published on October 3, 2023, by OKDiario, Coll described the events that transpired at the end of July as a “full-fledged invasion.” He posited that the crossings into Ceuta were part of a calculated operation intended to exert pressure on Madrid.
Coll contextualizes his accusations within a framework of “hybrid warfare,” asserting that Morocco has weaponized immigration to exploit the vulnerabilities of Spanish institutions for its own benefit. He has also criticized the government of Pedro Sánchez, accusing it of turning a blind eye and failing to respond with the necessary firmness. Transitioning from a military career, Fulgencio Coll is now politically active as a spokesperson for the Vox party in the Palma city council.
This perspective starkly contrasts that presented in September by José Manuel Albares, the Spanish Foreign Minister, who reported that Nasser Bourita, Morocco's Foreign Minister, denied any Moroccan involvement in the migrant influx. Albares indicated that Madrid could not definitively ascertain who was behind the movement.
Call for Military Presence and Economic Pressure on Morocco
In another segment of the interview, Coll advocated for a significant military enhancement along the border. He believes that Spain's security forces are under immense strain and require a more robust deterrent presence. He also called for the intervention of Frontex, the European border and coast guard agency, despite its existing presence in Ceuta during the crisis, where it deployed twenty agents. Hans Leijtens, the director of Frontex, explained to Dutch MPs that the agency primarily focused on information gathering, while access control remained the responsibility of Spain.
Beyond personnel issues, Coll aims to leverage the economic and commercial tools of Spain and the European Union against Morocco. He has gone so far as to suggest that a “casus belli,” or a justification for war, could arise if the defense of Spanish sovereignty necessitated such actions. On a diplomatic front, both nations continue to engage in discussions regarding the repatriation of migrants. During a meeting with Albares in New York on September 24, Bourita reiterated Morocco's commitment to “full cooperation” in repatriating migrants stranded in Ceuta who are ineligible for international protection.
As reported by bladi.net.
