Israeli Stance on Morocco's Claims Over Ceuta and Melilla
In a recent statement, Dana Erlich, the Israeli Ambassador to Spain, clarified that there is no current intention within the Israeli government to support Morocco's claims regarding the cities of Ceuta and Melilla. She emphasized that this issue is not a priority for Tel Aviv at this time, particularly as it focuses on pressing security challenges. During an event held in Madrid, Erlich noted that Israel is "not thinking about this subject" right now, highlighting that the matter does not align with the current priorities of Benjamin Netanyahu's government, given the perceived threats facing Israel today.
This position comes in response to recent media reports suggesting that Israel might be open to offering diplomatic support to Morocco concerning its claims over Ceuta and Melilla, two cities currently under Spanish administration in North Africa. Erlich reiterated the importance of Spain as a significant ally for Israel in various international frameworks, pointing out that the security challenges faced by both nations share similarities. She expressed surprise at what she perceives as Spain's failure to recognize Israel as a partner and ally.
Political Dynamics and Diplomatic Relations
The Israeli ambassador elaborated on the nature of bilateral relations between Madrid and Tel Aviv, describing her diplomatic mission in Spain as challenging. She expressed concern regarding the Spanish government's positions on ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, indicating that they provoke unease from her perspective. Erlich remarked that the relationship between the two countries has recently gone through what she termed a "perfect storm," referring to a rise in political and diplomatic tensions. However, she underscored the importance of maintaining open channels of dialogue despite existing disagreements.
Additionally, Erlich addressed the growing manifestations of anti-Semitism in Europe, noting that the Jewish community in Spain feels anxious and fearful. She criticized the existence of groups she claimed support terrorism within Spain, specifically mentioning the "Samidoun" network, which she stated has been banned by some European nations while still operating legally in Spain.
This announcement follows recent controversial remarks made by officials close to former U.S. President Donald Trump, which discussed the need to reconsider the status of Ceuta and Melilla. These statements were interpreted by Spanish media as being sympathetic to the Moroccan viewpoint regarding the two enclaves. Observers have connected these comments to the rising tensions in U.S.-Spanish relations following Spain's cautious stance towards certain military cooperation arrangements proposed by Trump's administration amid its confrontation with Iran, sparking a broader political debate within Spain about the implications of its discord with the United States on broader strategic issues.
As reported by assahifa.com.
