Spain Flexes Naval Muscle Near Melilla, Sends Message to Morocco

Spanish ships have been carrying out surveillance and deterrence missions since April in the territories claimed by Morocco, such as the enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla, as well as the Chafarinas Islands and the Velez de la Gomera rock.

The announced presence of the Juan Carlos I aircraft carrier in Melilla, near Moroccan waters, is a strong message sent to Morocco, analyzes El Debate, specifying that the power of the ship, added to the ceremony of the oath of allegiance to the Spanish flag of some 400 civilians, is a way for Spain to reaffirm its sovereignty over the presidio.

Open house days will be organized on October 5 and 6 to allow the city’s residents to discover the Juan Carlos I aircraft carrier. An exhibition of Spanish navy sailing assets is also planned.