The Moroccan Minister of Justice, Abdellatif Ouahbi, has once again brought up the status of Ceuta and Melilla, asserting that Morocco seeks formal negotiations with Spain regarding these territories, which Rabat considers integral parts of its national soil. In a recent statement, Ouahbi emphasized that the issue remains an open matter in bilateral discussions, framed within a long-term strategy rooted in dialogue and patience. This recurring topic frequently surfaces during high-level meetings between officials from both nations, he noted.

Addressing the surge of irregular migration on July 30 and 31, Ouahbi underscored Spain’s obligation to manage and repatriate unaccompanied Moroccan minors who arrived in Ceuta during these crossings. He also criticized Spain’s stance, which pressures Morocco to curb migrant departures, while simultaneously allowing those who reach Spanish shores to pursue legal procedures. Additionally, Ouahbi highlighted the necessity for Spain and Morocco to align on legal frameworks and operational mechanisms to combat irregular migration, stressing that Morocco cannot bear the sole responsibility of policing Europe’s borders.

The following day, Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs swiftly dismissed Morocco’s sovereignty claims over Ceuta and Melilla. In a firm rebuttal, the ministry clarified that the status of these territories is not—and will never be—a subject of negotiation. Officials reiterated that Ceuta and Melilla are firmly embedded within Spain’s internationally recognized territorial integrity.

Diplomatic tension escalates as Spanish officials react

During a visit to Ceuta, Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares sidestepped the territorial dispute in his public remarks, instead focusing on the immediate migration challenges. He acknowledged Morocco’s willingness to take back unaccompanied minors who entered during the recent influx, refraining from addressing the broader sovereignty debate.

In contrast, the President of Melilla, Juan José Imbroda, took a more confrontational stance. Speaking to the media, he questioned the purpose of Ceuta and Melilla if Morocco cannot manage its own affairs and prevent its youth from fleeing. Imbroda, representing the Popular Party, described the current migration situation as an international embarrassment for Morocco, urging the country to handle the crisis with dignity. Earlier this week, Morocco’s Ministry of the Interior echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the shared responsibility between both countries in addressing mass crossings toward Ceuta. The ministry also warned of online calls encouraging new migration attempts on August 15, stressing that combating irregular migration and human trafficking networks requires coordinated efforts from all parties involved.