Spanish government denies conflict with Morocco, criticizes Vox’s claims

Saturday 01 November 2025 - 08:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Spanish government denies conflict with Morocco, criticizes Vox’s claims

The Spanish government has firmly dismissed allegations of conflict with Morocco, emphasizing the strong partnership between the two nations despite occasional disagreements. Officials criticized the far-right party Vox for perpetuating what they described as a “false narrative” of tensions and espionage.

During a meeting of the Joint National Security Committee in Congress, Diego Rubio, head of the Spanish Prime Minister’s Office, addressed concerns raised by Vox deputy Ignacio Gil Lázaro, who questioned whether Morocco posed a military threat to Spain. Rubio categorically denied the claims, asserting that there is “no secret conflict” between the two countries.

“Morocco is a neighbor, a friend, and a strategic partner,” Rubio stated, likening any disagreements to the natural differences that arise between close neighbors such as Spain and Portugal or France. He stressed that bilateral relations are at one of their strongest historical points, with significant collaboration in areas such as migration management, anti-terrorism efforts, and combating smuggling and human trafficking.

However, the conservative Popular Party (PP) adopted a more skeptical tone. PP deputy Rafael Hernando referenced previous reports involving the Pegasus spyware, sarcastically questioning the government’s management of ties with Morocco. Hernando pointed out that Moroccan espionage allegedly succeeded in hacking the phones of Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and members of his cabinet, including the ministers of Interior and Defense.

Meanwhile, Vox has repeatedly accused the government of overlooking what it claims is Morocco’s “hybrid war” against Spain. Earlier this week, the Ceuta Assembly rejected a proposal by Vox that called for increased border security and warned of a supposed Moroccan “invasion.” The motion was dismissed by all other political parties.

Despite these criticisms, the Spanish government has reiterated its commitment to fostering strong ties with Morocco, urging a focus on partnership rather than conspiracy theories. Officials underlined the importance of maintaining close cooperation with the North African country in addressing shared challenges.