US Study: Morocco Could Capture Spanish Enclaves in Hours, Experts Warn

In four hours of combat with 40,000 soldiers, Morocco would control Melilla, the Vélez rocks and Al Hoceima, an American study had indicated. In 1981, the Spanish government, then led by Leopoldo Calvo Sotelo, had negotiated Spain’s accession to NATO without being able to include Ceuta and Melilla, due to Article 6 of the North Atlantic Treaty, still in force.

To read: NATO’s Defense Pledge for Spanish Enclaves Ceuta and Melilla in Question

After the migration crisis last May, the PP and the Vox party asked the government to take steps with NATO to integrate Ceuta and Melilla. So far, the project has not yet materialized. The two cities cannot benefit from NATO protection in the event of an attack by Morocco, which has strengthened and modernized its army over the years.

To read: Spain Seeks NATO Protection for Ceuta and Melilla Ahead of Biden-Sanchez Meeting

Moreover, Morocco is a privileged partner of the United States with which it has maintained military cooperation for years. Meanwhile, Spain is lagging behind in strengthening its army and is struggling to inject new momentum into its relations with the United States.

In any case, Ceuta and Melilla remain vulnerable to Morocco, as in 1981. A Moroccan attack lasting half a day at most would be enough for the kingdom to take possession of the two territories.