Spain Stands Firm on North African Enclaves
MADRID, August 12 (Reuters) - In a decisive statement, Spanish officials reaffirmed that the territorial status of Ceuta and Melilla, two North African enclaves, is not open for negotiation. This declaration follows remarks from Morocco's Justice Minister, Abdellatif Ouahbi, who reiterated Rabat's claims to sovereignty over these cities during an interview with Asharq TV. Ouahbi's comments represent the first public assertion of this contentious issue since the border crisis that unfolded in late July, when approximately 72,000 migrants crossed into Ceuta, resulting in tragic fatalities with at least 96 individuals losing their lives during the mass border rush.
Since its independence in 1956, Morocco has maintained that Ceuta and Melilla are occupied territories, insisting that sovereignty should ultimately revert to Rabat. Conversely, Spain has historically regarded these enclaves as integral parts of its territory, having established control over them since the 17th and 15th centuries, respectively. Spanish Defence Minister Margarita Robles strongly reacted to Ouahbi’s statements, emphasizing that "Ceuta and Melilla aren’t just Spanish; they’re super-Spanish and cannot be touched." She further asserted that any aggression toward these enclaves would be perceived as an attack on Spain as a whole, a sentiment echoed by the broader Spanish government.
The Spanish administration has praised Moroccan authorities for their cooperation in managing migration, attributing the recent border crisis to the operations of people-smuggling networks. In a separate announcement, Spain's Foreign Ministry made it clear that the country's territorial integrity "has not been, and will never be, discussed with anyone." Meanwhile, Morocco's Interior Ministry announced increased security measures along the borders of Ceuta and Melilla in response to online calls for another mass crossing attempt scheduled for August 15, warning that those organizing or participating in such actions would face legal consequences.
In light of the ongoing situation, the Moroccan ministry urged the public to remain vigilant against misleading calls that could endanger lives. Additionally, it called on Spain to expedite the return of unaccompanied Moroccan minors currently in Ceuta. Last week, Spanish Youth Minister Sira Rego indicated that Madrid would evaluate Morocco's proposal for the repatriation of these minors on a case-by-case basis.
As reported by internazionale.it.
