On August 22, 2026, Morocco's Minister of Justice, Abdellatif Ouahbi, reiterated Morocco's historical claim to the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla, urging Madrid to engage in dialogue over their sovereignty. Speaking at a political event, Ouahbi emphasized that the issue is a matter of territorial integrity for Morocco.
The minister's remarks come amid ongoing tensions between Morocco and Spain over the enclaves, which have been under Spanish control for centuries. Ouahbi called for a constructive dialogue based on mutual respect and international law, noting that Morocco's position is supported by historical and legal arguments.
Spain has consistently maintained that Ceuta and Melilla are integral parts of its territory, and any discussion of their sovereignty is off the table. The Spanish government has not yet responded to Ouahbi's latest comments.
This is not the first time Moroccan officials have raised the issue. In 2021, a diplomatic crisis between the two countries was triggered by Spain's decision to host the leader of the Polisario Front, which Morocco considers a separatist group. Relations have since improved, but the enclaves remain a sensitive topic.
