Ceuta and Western Sahara emerge at center of US-Morocco rapprochement
The United States has signaled a deepening economic and diplomatic relationship with Morocco since late July, building on its 2020 recognition of Moroccan autonomy claims over Western Sahara. Washington now appears ready to back Rabat's position on the Spanish-held enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla.
The United States has increasingly signaled a move to strengthen ties with Morocco since late July, both economically and diplomatically, according to RFI. The rapprochement builds on Washington's 2020 recognition of Morocco's autonomy plan for Western Sahara, made in exchange for Rabat normalizing relations with Israel.
Washington now appears ready to support Morocco's claims regarding the Spanish-administered enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla on the North African coast, a stance that would mark a further shift in the US position toward Morocco's territorial claims. Spain has historically rejected any challenge to its sovereignty over the two cities.
The evolving alignment could complicate relations between Washington and Madrid, both NATO allies, while strengthening Morocco's hand in regional diplomacy. Observers say the shift reflects broader US efforts to deepen partnerships in North Africa.
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