Morocco's Ongoing Claims to Ceuta and Melilla

The Moroccan Minister of Justice, Abdellatif Ouahbi, has firmly reiterated that the autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla represent a "historical and geographical right" of Morocco. In a recent interview with Morocco's public television channel 2M, Ouahbi emphasized the need for dialogue with Spain regarding the future of these territories, advocating for their return to Morocco. He stated, "The issue of Ceuta and Melilla will remain a topic of dialogue between us and Spain, and we will uphold our historical and geographical rights." This statement comes amidst a backdrop of renewed tensions regarding the sovereignty of these cities, which Morocco has claimed since its independence in 1956.

Ouahbi's remarks underline Morocco's long-standing position on Ceuta and Melilla, asserting that these territories are integral to its national identity. He called for the establishment of dialogue mechanisms with Spain to foster discussions aimed at resolving the current situation, expressing hope that Ceuta and Melilla would eventually "return to the homeland (Morocco)." This statement follows a recent declaration by Spain's Defense Minister, Margarita Robles, who affirmed that "Ceuta and Melilla are not just Spanish; they are profoundly Spanish," underscoring Spain's unwavering stance on the sovereignty of these territories.

Historical Context and Recent Developments

Historically, the question of Ceuta and Melilla has been a contentious issue between Spain and Morocco, with the late King Hassan II of Morocco previously calling on Spain to create a "reflection cell" to discuss the future of these enclaves without a response from the Spanish government. The recent interview with Ouahbi coincides with the implementation of a new advocacy law in Morocco, but it also reflects ongoing concerns about relations with Spain, particularly in light of recent migration crises impacting Ceuta.

In light of these developments, Ouahbi has renewed his plea for Spain to return all unaccompanied Moroccan minors who entered Ceuta during the recent migrant crisis, expressing Morocco's readiness to accept them after verifying their identities. The situation remains fluid as both nations navigate their complex historical ties and the pressing issues surrounding migration and territorial claims.

As reported by rtve.es.