The government responded by rejecting the premise of ongoing threats. Officials from the Moncloa Palace stated that neither the Guardia Civil nor the Navy are aware of any incidents having taken place after 30 and 31 July. A source from the prime minister’s office described Feijóo’s call for a diplomatic crisis as “irresponsible.” The government maintains that in the context of “good neighbourly relations” in the Strait of Gibraltar, it is normal for maritime lines to be crossed occasionally, a situation usually resolved through direct warnings between the respective navies.
The dispute centers on events surrounding the mass migration incident in Ceuta in July, during which more than 70,000 people crossed the border. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez admitted in an informal conversation with journalists on 12 October that a Moroccan frigate and several patrol boats had entered Spanish waters on 30 and 31 July. However, Sánchez did not report this matter to Parliament on 3 September. The government stated that this specific incursion had “nothing to do” with the border breach and was swiftly resolved through dialogue. Sánchez argued in Brussels on Thursday that the proof it was an isolated incident is that no such event has occurred in recent months.
Opposition claims of continued aggression are based on reports, including one from the newspaper ABC citing police sources, that a Moroccan patrol boat entered Spanish waters off the coast of Melilla on Thursday. Feijóo also called for Sánchez to appear before the Diputación Permanente and for an investigation into the matter. Government sources countered that a foray by a frigate, which is equipped with precise navigation systems, is distinct from that of patrol boats stationed near the water’s edge, which can sometimes cross the border inadvertently, a fact confirmed by the Guardia Civil. They emphasized that coordination between the two countries remains consistent and functional.
The next expected development is a potential parliamentary appearance by Prime Minister Sánchez, as demanded by the opposition, or further diplomatic consultations if the government agrees to the summons.
