Sebta reveals who really holds the power between King Mohammed VI and Pedro Sánchez

The two countries are linked by trade, the fight against irregular immigration and the organization of the 2030 World Cup. However, this interdependence does not put them on an equal footing when a crisis breaks out.

On Bladi.net : article 122662

The mass crossing into Sebta demonstrated the power of Morocco’s migration lever, the Financial Times analyzes. Madrid nevertheless avoided directly accusing Rabat. Pedro Sánchez instead praised Moroccan cooperation, which enabled the rapid return of most of the people who had entered the city.

This caution illustrates Spain’s dependence on its neighbor to control its southern border.

The Sahara turning point

The balance of power had already become apparent in 2021, when Spain secretly welcomed Brahim Ghali, leader of the Polisario Front, so that he could receive medical treatment there. Morocco denounced this as a lack of respect. Shortly afterward, at least 8 000 people reached Sebta within a few hours.

A year later, Pedro Sánchez broke with Spain’s historic position by supporting Morocco’s autonomy plan for the Sahara. For the analysts quoted by the British daily, Rabat had understood that Madrid needed Morocco more than Morocco needed Spain.

The sources of tension have not disappeared. Spain seeks to preserve its ties with Algeria, while Morocco does not recognize Spanish sovereignty over Sebta and Melilla.

Rabat also has an advantage in Washington. Donald Trump recognized Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara in 2020 and maintains good relations with Mohammed VI. Pedro Sánchez, for his part, opposes the American president on several issues.

On Bladi.net : After Ceuta, Europe Wants to Pay Morocco More to Tighten Border Controls

Despite the rhetoric about the strategic partnership, direct contacts between Mohammed VI and Pedro Sánchez remain rare. For the Financial Times, the crisis above all reminded the Spanish head of government of one reality: when relations become strained, the King of Morocco has the levers that produce the most immediate effects in Spain.