Morocco Removes ’Border’ References at Ceuta and Melilla Crossings, Escalating Territorial Dispute with Spain

The two Moroccan police stations located at the borders with Ceuta and Melilla have been instructed by the Director General of the DGSN, Abdellatif Hammouchi, to erase the word "border" on all Moroccan buildings near the two autonomous cities, reports El Español, specifying that in doing so, Morocco is clearly indicating to Spain that it claims these "occupied" territories.

A photo showing individuals sticking the inscription "Occupied Ceuta" in Arabic and French on a road sign at the entrance to the autonomous city has gone viral on social networks. Sources close to the Moroccan monarchy consider the measure as "a good step forward", in the midst of this "persistent crisis between Spain and Morocco."

To read: Morocco’s "Hybrid Strategy" Aims to Claim Spanish Enclaves, Report Warns

Moreover, the agents who worked at the border posts, and who have been assigned to airports and seaports since the closure of the borders with Ceuta and Melilla on March 13, 2020, are preparing to return to their posts by the end of February, the same source believes, adding that thanks to these steps, "Moroccan citizens and residents in Morocco will be able to access the two enclaves without going through the formalities." But entry into Morocco via Ceuta and Melilla will remain prohibited for Spaniards and foreigners, it is pointed out.

This measure comes after Morocco has resumed its relations with Germany and its ambassador, Zohour Alaoui, has returned to Berlin. Meanwhile, Karima Benyaich, Morocco’s ambassador to Madrid, recalled to Rabat since May for consultations, has still not returned to her post. Morocco is waiting for Spain to review its position on the Sahara before restoring relations. A requirement reiterated this week by Mustapha Baitas. "Spain has expressed its ambition, but for this ambition to materialize, we need a lot of clarity," he said.