Morocco's Stance on Deceased Nationals from Ceuta
In a significant development regarding the ongoing migrant crisis in Ceuta, Morocco has placed conditions on the acceptance of the remains of its nationals who died during the tumultuous events at the border. The Moroccan Justice Minister, Abdellatif Ouahbi, has stated that Morocco requires forensic reports from Spain to confirm the identities of the deceased before they can be repatriated. This requirement is coupled with a demand for the return of Moroccan minors currently in Ceuta, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to the situation.
In an interview with Saudi channel Al Arabiya, Ouahbi stressed the necessity of identifying the deceased individuals, stating, "We cannot accept the bodies without knowing who these people are." He pointed out that Morocco has long sought the return of living migrants as well and criticized Spain for prioritizing the issue of deceased individuals. The Moroccan authorities are currently unaware of how many of the bodies in Ceuta belong to Moroccan nationals, as they await the forensic documentation from Spanish officials.
Ongoing Crisis and Diplomatic Tensions
The situation has escalated, with over 80 bodies awaiting burial in Ceuta due to the surge of migrants during late July. Local authorities have initiated the burial process in a temporary morgue set up to handle the influx. To date, 18 bodies have been interred, but Morocco insists that no remains will be allowed to enter the country until an agreed-upon procedure is established with Spain.
Ouahbi's statements come amid rising tensions between Madrid and Rabat, particularly concerning Morocco's claims over Ceuta and Melilla. The Spanish government has firmly rejected any assertions regarding the sovereignty of these territories, reiterating that they are integral parts of Spain and the European Union. The diplomatic dialogue between the two nations remains critical as they navigate the complexities of this humanitarian crisis.
As reported by antena3.com.
