Ceuta and Spanish FM Reject Speculation of ‘New Green March’ by Morocco

The President of Ceuta, Juan Jesús Vivas, and Spain’s Foreign Minister, José Manuel Albares, have firmly dismissed recent media claims suggesting a potential Moroccan “Green March” targeting the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. Both officials categorically rejected these speculations, emphasizing the stability and sovereignty of the city.

Speaking at the Fórum Europa breakfast event in Madrid, organized by the Nueva Economía Fórum, Vivas assured attendees that there was “not the slightest risk” of such an event taking place. “I have no concern whatsoever, and I say this with complete sincerity, that Ceuta could be affected by any risk of a possible Green March on our city. It is absolutely out of the question, and I say this with total conviction,” he stated.

Vivas criticized the spread of unfounded rumors, warning that such narratives could harm the stability of Ceuta’s population and undermine confidence in the city’s future. He underscored Ceuta’s Spanish identity, noting that its sovereignty is guaranteed by both the constitutional order and the will of its people, regardless of the political orientation of Spain’s national government. “Ceuta is Spain because the law proves it, because history praises it, and because the people of Ceuta want it, all the people of Ceuta,” he concluded.

This strong stance by Vivas follows similar comments made by Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares during an interview with Telecinco. Albares dismissed concerns that the growing relationship between Morocco and the United States, particularly under Donald Trump’s presidency, could threaten Spain’s territories in North Africa. “Morocco is a friendly country and a strategic partner, and the United States has historically been the natural ally of all Europeans,” he stated. Albares emphasized that the enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla are “perfectly integrated within Spain,” and this is widely acknowledged.

Strengthening Spanish-Moroccan relations

Both officials highlighted the ongoing progress in Spanish-Moroccan relations, citing key developments such as the reopening of Melilla’s customs post, the establishment of a new customs facility in Ceuta, and enhanced cooperation in areas like immigration control, counter-terrorism, and trade. Trade between the two nations reached a record €25 billion in 2024.

These reassurances come amid heightened speculation in Spanish media. Reports by outlets such as El Español have suggested that Morocco, emboldened by its strengthening ties with the US, could launch a symbolic action targeting Ceuta or Melilla, reminiscent of the 1975 Green March that led to Morocco’s recovery of Western Sahara. Some reports even hinted at potential support for such an initiative from former US President Donald Trump, particularly as 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the Green March.

Adding to the speculation, El Español highlighted Morocco’s growing military capabilities, with its 2025 defense budget exceeding €12 billion—a 7% increase from the previous year—and its status as a significant purchaser of US weapons. These developments have fueled theories in “military circles” about a potential Moroccan maneuver targeting the enclaves.

Official dismissal of rumors

Both Vivas and Albares unequivocally rejected these claims. Vivas chose not to entertain speculation linking delays in opening commercial customs with Morocco’s stance on Western Sahara. Instead, he advocated for traditional customs operations “without other limits and restrictions than what the law or logistical capacities establish.”

Albares reaffirmed that Spain’s foreign policy regarding Morocco is a matter of state, transcending political divisions. “We have always stood by the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, regardless of whatever political color the minister might have,” Vivas added.

These statements underline both officials' commitment to maintaining strong bilateral relations with Morocco while ensuring the sovereignty and stability of Ceuta and Melilla remain intact.