The Spanish Congress has ignited a significant debate that extends beyond its borders by voting in favor of a legislative proposal aimed at granting Spanish citizenship to individuals from Western Sahara and their descendants. This potential law, which could affect an estimated 80,000 to nearly 200,000 people born before September 29, 1977, in the former Spanish colony, is now awaiting approval from the Senate before it can be enacted.

This initiative is backed by the government of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. Since Spain's withdrawal, the majority of Western Sahara has been under Moroccan control, while a portion remains under the governance of the Frente Polisario, an independence movement supported by Algeria. The United Nations officially classifies the region as non-self-governing. In 2022, Spain abandoned its long-standing neutrality in the conflict and aligned itself with Morocco, a move that has prompted a range of responses.

Opposition from conservative and far-right parties in Spain has surfaced in response to this proposed legislation, and Morocco's government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the matter. The timing of this law comes during a period of heightened tension between Madrid and Rabat, particularly following a recent incident where over 70,000 individuals crossed into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta from Morocco over two days, with many returning shortly thereafter or being repatriated. Reports indicated that dozens lost their lives during this mass influx.

Speculation has arisen that Morocco may have intentionally allowed these crossings, possibly as a reaction to Prime Minister Sánchez's visit to Algeria in July. Sánchez has consistently denied any responsibility on Morocco's part, a stance that has drawn sharp criticism from the Spanish opposition. On the same day, the Moroccan government issued a statement asserting that there is no evidence linking Moroccan authorities to the events in Ceuta, emphasizing its desire not to be a scapegoat for political disputes within Spain.

As reported by t-online.de.