Spain-Morocco tensions over ceuta and melilla spark diplomatic row in madrid

Abdellatif Ouahbi’s latest statements have sent shockwaves through Spanish political circles. In a Tuesday interview with Asharq Bloomberg, the Moroccan minister reiterated Rabat’s position that Ceuta and Melilla remain Moroccan territories and should be addressed through dialogue and patience. He also highlighted Spain’s responsibilities in managing the late July migrant crisis, particularly regarding unaccompanied Moroccan minors, while stressing that Morocco cannot serve as Europe’s migration enforcement arm.

Reacting swiftly, Spain’s opposition PP party has intensified pressure on Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s government. On August 13, 2026, the party called for the immediate recall of Morocco’s ambassador for urgent consultations. PP deputy Jaime de los Santos, speaking during a visit to Barcelona, drew parallels with Madrid’s recent handling of the Italian ambassador after Rome suspended the Schengen agreement, questioning why similar measures hadn’t been taken against Morocco despite the Ceuta border crisis and Ouahbi’s sovereignty remarks.

The conservative party escalated its demands further by submitting written questions to the Congress of Deputies. They are pressing Justice and Presidency Minister Félix Bolaños to clarify all exchanges with his Moroccan counterpart since the recent migrant crisis and explain how Spain plans to respond to Ouahbi’s statements on the two enclaves’ status.

Adding to the controversy, the PP has accused Morocco of threatening to suspend the bilateral extradition agreement with Spain. This accord is seen by the party as crucial for organizing the return of individuals who crossed the border fences.

The diplomatic saga continues to unfold, with Spain’s right-wing opposition leveraging the issue to challenge the Sánchez government’s policies. Meanwhile, the government has yet to respond to calls for a firmer stance from the conservative opposition.