Morocco’s Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi has a history of stirring controversy, but his latest remarks about Ceuta and Melilla have sent shockwaves across Spain, triggering a fierce political debate in Madrid.

Speaking to Asharq Bloomberg on Tuesday, Mr. Ouahbi stated that Rabat is prepared to negotiate with Madrid regarding the status of the two cities, which Morocco considers its own. He emphasized that this issue remains « on the table » within a framework of dialogue and patience. He also criticized Spain’s handling of the late July migration crisis, particularly regarding the return of unaccompanied Moroccan minors, while stressing that Morocco cannot act as Europe’s migration police.

The Spanish People’s Party (PP) has now taken a firm stance, demanding that the government of Pedro Sánchez summon Morocco’s ambassador immediately for official consultations. The party’s objection stems not only from Rabat’s reaffirmed position on the two enclaves but also from its handling of the recent migration surge at the Ceuta border.

During a visit to Barcelona, PP deputy Jaime de los Santos pointed out an inconsistency in Spain’s diplomatic approach. He highlighted that Madrid swiftly summoned Italy’s ambassador after Rome suspended the Schengen agreement, questioning why a similar response hasn’t been issued to Morocco, given the massive migrant influx at Ceuta and Ouahbi’s remarks on Spanish sovereignty over the two cities.

The PP isn’t stopping at this demand. The party has also submitted a series of written questions to the Congress of Deputies, urging Justice Minister Félix Bolaños to clarify the government’s exchanges with his Moroccan counterpart since the migration crisis began two weeks ago. They also seek an explanation on the follow-up to Ouahbi’s statements regarding the status of the two enclaves.

Another concern raised by the conservative party is Morocco’s alleged threat to suspend the extradition treaty between Rabat and Madrid—a treaty the PP views as essential for organizing the return of individuals who crossed the border fence.

The dispute shows no signs of resolution, with Spain’s opposition party using this diplomatic saga to pressure the Sánchez government, while the executive has yet to respond to calls for a firmer stance from the right.