Morocco’s Alleged ’Hybrid Strategy’ to Claim Ceuta and Melilla Sparks Spanish Concern

Mulet recalled the report of experts from the Higher Center for National Defense Studies (Ceseden) and the Spanish Institute of Strategic Studies (IEEE) which warned that Morocco is seeking to "annex" Ceuta and Melilla "without going to war". According to this document published by university professors in political science, "Morocco has been deploying a hybrid strategy for many years to establish its sovereignty over the two cities".

To read: Spanish Military Chief: Morocco Not a Threat to Ceuta and Melilla

The experts cite as an example the closure by Morocco of the customs post at the border with Melilla on August 1, 2018 and the strengthening of border controls in Tarajal in 2019, thus putting an end to the smuggling trade. They also recall the massive arrival of Moroccan migrants in Ceuta in May, causing an unprecedented migration crisis, reports El Confidencial Digital.

The MP also wants to know whether the Executive considers that it is "doing enough" in the face of "human rights violations and resolutions" made by Morocco concerning the Sahara.