On August 13, 2026, Morocco's government revived the long-standing dispute over the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla, calling for a new dialogue on their sovereignty. The Moroccan foreign ministry issued a statement asserting that the two cities are 'Moroccan territories under Spanish occupation' and demanded that Spain agree to negotiations.
Spain's response was swift and unequivocal. The Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected Morocco's claim, stating that 'Ceuta and Melilla are Spanish territories, and their sovereignty is not a matter for discussion.' Spanish officials emphasized that the enclaves have been Spanish for centuries and that any challenge to their status is unacceptable.
The dispute has historically been a source of tension between the two countries, which share complex economic and security ties. The enclaves are the only land borders between the European Union and Africa, making them crucial for migration control and trade. In recent years, both nations have cooperated on migration issues, but the sovereignty question remains a sensitive point.
Analysts suggest that Morocco's renewed push may be linked to domestic politics or broader regional dynamics, but no official reason was given. The European Union has not yet commented on the latest development, but previous EU statements have supported Spain's position on the enclaves.
