Confidencial Digital/Madrid’s Reversal: Withdrawing Promise to Cede Sahrawi Airspace to Morocco
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In a surprising turn of events, the Spanish government, led by socialist Pedro Sanchez, has reneged on its commitment to hand over the management of Sahrawi airspace to Morocco. This decision has dealt a significant blow to Morocco and has sparked diplomatic tensions between the two countries. The backtrack by Madrid raises questions about the political motivations behind the decision and has had profound implications for both Spain and its embattled leader.
Background
The airspace of Western Sahara, which falls under the administration of Spain, has been managed by the country from the Canary Islands for several decades. This arrangement was established by the international civil aviation organization under the United Nations. However, Spain recently made a promise to transfer the management of this airspace to Moroccan authorities, aligning itself with the position of the Moroccan occupier.
The Reversal
The Spanish media outlet Confidencial Digital reported that Madrid has officially informed Morocco of its decision to rescind the transfer of Sahrawi airspace management. Political and legal reasons have been cited as the basis for this reversal. Firstly, it is believed that Pedro Sanchez decided to slow down the process of ceding the airspace due to electoral considerations. Secondly, it is important to note that Spain merely administers the airspace of Western Sahara and does not have legal ownership over it. Therefore, the promise made by Sanchez to entrust Morocco with the management of this airspace lacked a legal basis.
Implications and Reactions
Morocco has expressed its discontent with Spain’s decision. In response, the Moroccan government has invoked the issue of the “Moroccanness” of the Spanish enclaves of Sebta and Melilla, according to diplomatic sources cited by Confidencial Digital. This diplomatic spat has added strain to the already complex relationship between the two nations.
Pedro Sanchez’s reversal on the issue of Western Sahara has had adverse consequences for his political standing. The decision has further weakened him politically, resulting in divisions within his leftist coalition government and the Spanish Socialist Party he leads. In the regional elections that followed the announcement, Sanchez’s party suffered a significant defeat against the right-wing People’s Party. This defeat can be seen as a sanction vote, reflecting the disapproval of the electorate regarding the government’s handling of the Western Sahara issue.
Looking Ahead
In response to the mounting political pressure, Pedro Sanchez has called for early legislative elections on July 23, significantly earlier than originally scheduled. This move carries considerable risks for the Spanish leader, as the right-wing opposition, buoyed by their recent electoral victory, poses a formidable challenge. The outcome of these elections will determine the future direction of Spain’s policy towards Western Sahara and could have broader implications for the country’s political landscape.
