Continuing Tensions Over Ceuta and Melilla
Jorge Discaïar, the former Spanish ambassador to Rabat, has emphasized that Morocco has not relinquished its claims over the territories of Ceuta and Melilla. He considers the ongoing dispute over these two cities as a significant factor contributing to the recent migration crisis in Ceuta, which has brought the territorial issue back to the forefront of political discussions in Spain and Europe. Discaïar, who has also managed the Spanish intelligence agency, CNI, shared these insights during an interview with the European affairs-focused publication, Euractiv.
According to Discaïar, Morocco has "never stepped back" from its demands regarding Ceuta and Melilla, asserting that the tensions surrounding the status of these cities have been instrumental in the influx of migrants that has recently overwhelmed Ceuta. He noted that Morocco is currently "testing the waters" amidst what he describes as a perception of a "weak government in Madrid," particularly in light of the political pressures faced by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez over corruption scandals involving officials in his administration, alongside the controversies arising from his stances on migration and foreign policy matters.
Historical Context of the Dispute
Having served as Spain's ambassador to Morocco from 1997 to 2001, Discaïar characterized the relationship between the two nations as "more emotional than rational," describing its trajectory as "meandering." However, he highlighted the strong economic and security ties that bind Madrid and Rabat, especially concerning issues like migration, counter-terrorism, and regional security. His comments come in the wake of Moroccan Minister of Justice Abdellatif Ouahbi’s statements to Al Sharq News, wherein he reiterated that the question of Ceuta and Melilla remains "on the table," insisting that Morocco raises this issue "each time" it engages with Spanish representatives, and emphasizing that any resolution should be achieved "through negotiation and patience."
The dispute over Ceuta and Melilla is rooted in a long history of European expansion into North Africa. Ceuta was captured by Portugal in 1415 under King John I, marking the beginning of Portuguese colonial endeavors in the region. The city was later transferred to Spanish rule and its status was confirmed by the Treaty of Lisbon in 1668. Similarly, Melilla was seized by Spanish forces in 1497, having previously been under Moroccan influence during various historical phases. Following Morocco's independence in 1956, Rabat has not acknowledged Spanish sovereignty over Ceuta and Melilla, viewing them as territories under occupation, while Madrid maintains that they are integral parts of Spain. This divergence in perspectives remains a contentious issue in Moroccan-Spanish relations.
Throughout history, Morocco has made military attempts to reclaim these cities or to challenge European dominance in northern Morocco. Ceuta, in particular, has been the target of several military operations and sieges, including the notable siege led by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, which lasted from 1694 until 1727 with intermittent breaks. Historical accounts vary on the duration of the siege due to these pauses, but it is widely recognized as one of the longest sieges in the city's history. The confrontations during Moulay Ismail's reign extended to Melilla as well, which also experienced Moroccan sieges, including a 52-day blockade in 1687. Subsequent military efforts to reclaim territories previously under European control continued over various periods, with Morocco managing to recover several coastal locations, although Ceuta and Melilla remained outside Moroccan sovereignty.
Presently, Rabat and Madrid continue to hold opposing views regarding the legal and sovereign status of these cities. While Spain asserts that Ceuta and Melilla are inseparable parts of its territory and refuses to negotiate their sovereignty, Morocco maintains that the issue remains unresolved.
As reported by assahifa.com.
