BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In a recent development, Jorge Dezcallar, former director of the Spanish National Intelligence Center (CNI) and ambassador to Morocco, has voiced strong criticism against Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’ stance on the Sahara issue. Speaking at the Círculo Ecuestre de Barcelona on the topic of “Geopolitics in Times of Great Rivalries,” Dezcallar labeled the government’ shift in position as a “very serious mistake,” highlighting his expertise in intelligence and diplomacy.
As someone who has served as an ambassador in Morocco, Dezcallar possesses a deep understanding of the country’s workings, particularly its reliance on corruption and blackmail within its diplomatic endeavors. Given his experience, his words carry weight and warrant attention.
Dezcallar expressed his confusion over the Spanish government’s decision to alter its position on the Sahara, stating, “I don’t understand what this government has done to change our position in the Sahara. I don’t see what advantages we got, no one explained it to me, I think it’s a very serious mistake.”
Dezcallar went on to criticize the sudden support for Moroccan sovereignty over the disputed territory, pointing out that Spain had previously supported the United Nations’ stance on seeking an agreement between the parties involved. The former CNI director expressed his surprise at the decision, highlighting that it was made without the knowledge or consultation of the government, its partners, or the opposition. According to available information, Sanchez supported the Moroccan autonomy plan rather than the notion of “Moroccanity” over Western Sahara. However, Dezcallar suggested that he possessed more extensive and compromising information, citing a leaked letter from the Royal Palace of Morocco, which has yet to be published despite requests from Congress.
Dezcallar contended that Spain’ support for the alleged Moroccan sovereignty in Western Sahara brings few tangible benefits. He questioned what Spain had gained from this shift, apart from a temporary decrease in illegal immigration, which he admitted was reversible. He further highlighted ongoing geopolitical problems with Morocco, including the suffocation of Ceuta and Melilla, territorial water disputes, and the unresolved issue of reopening customs in Melilla. According to Dezcallar, Sanchez’s move has thrust Spain into the midst of the conflict between Algeria and Morocco, resulting in consequences and difficulties for Spain.
In addition to the ineffective decrease in illegal immigration, Spain has also suffered significant financial and economic losses due to the freeze in the friendship and cooperation treaty with Morocco. This demonstrates that Sanchez’s actions are constrained by intelligence agencies and “Makhzen diplomats,” suggesting that he may not be acting independently in this matter.
Dezcallar’s critique raises important questions regarding the Spanish government’s decision and its potential ramifications. As a former ambassador and intelligence director, his insights carry substantial weight and deserve serious consideration. The consequences of Spain’s altered position on the Sahara remain to be seen, but it is crucial for the government to address these concerns and provide clarity on its decision-making process and expected outcomes.
Translated with adaptation from: La Patrie News
