Former Spanish Minister Reveals Diplomatic Tensions in 2002 Perejil Island Dispute

In an intervention on Espejo Público, Trillo supported his recent statements on the Perejil Island crisis, noting "that part of what I said is published in my memoirs." The former Defense Minister specified that Spain was "alone" in this conflict, pointing out that the United States had proposed a diplomatic agreement, while France had exerted pressure on Spain to prevent it from expelling Morocco from this uninhabited islet of about 15 hectares, located about 200 meters off the Moroccan coast. But Spain decided to "recover the island and restore its status," he confided.

Trillo also revealed a "state secret" about this conflict. "The helicopters that were supposed to refuel in Cadiz changed course and headed to Morón, where the Americans were. When we arrived at this point, Aznar, despite the hour, decided to continue the operation," he said, adding that this situation caused tensions after the Moroccans, alerted by the Americans, began to make demands.

Moreover, the former minister took the opportunity to reaffirm the Spanish character of Ceuta and Melilla, arguing that the two presidios "are two cities guaranteed as Spanish territory" under NATO protection. He concluded his remarks by inviting "the President of the Government, whether Pedro Sánchez or those who will follow," to "take care of relations with Morocco."