Ceuta and Melilla are in Morocco": the shocking statement of an American official

The rupture between Washington and Madrid seems to be consummated. The refusal of Pedro Sánchez’s government to allow the United States to use the Rota and Morón bases for the war against Iran has provoked the anger of the Trump administration. For Mario Díaz-Balart, chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee, this "aggressive" attitude jeopardizes a historic alliance in favor of alleged ties with authoritarian regimes.

On Bladi.net: Trump’s threats on Spain: Morocco in ambush to recover US logistical infrastructure

In an interview with El Español, the Republican lawmaker directly challenged Spanish sovereignty over the enclaves. "Ceuta and Melilla are not on the geographical territory of Spain, they are on the territory of Morocco," the parliamentarian hammered. He believes that these sovereignty issues should be discussed and resolved between "friends and allies", hailing the strength of the relationship between the United States and Rabat.

Faced with the blockage of Spanish airspace, the United States is now studying fallback options. Morocco, whose geopolitical position is considered strategic, appears to be the natural solution to host the American bases. The Trump administration could consider supporting Moroccan claims on the two cities in exchange for a strengthened military partnership for its operations in the Middle East.

On Bladi.net: Morocco, the "greatest threat" to Spain

Díaz-Balart’s influence on US foreign policy and budgets gives particular resonance to his remarks. While Secretary of State Marco Rubio describes the Spanish position as "unacceptable", Washington is multiplying gestures towards the kingdom. The congressman warns that every diplomatic decision will have consequences, stressing that President Trump is not a man "with whom one plays".