How US and Israel capitalised on the Ceuta crisis

Around 60,000 people crossed from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta on 30 July, with at least 141 people confirmed dead.

The crisis followed months of political developments challenging Spain’s position over Ceuta and Melilla.

In March, the American Enterprise Institute published a proposal for a Moroccan “Green March” into the enclaves. In April, an article published by Israeli outlet Ynet argued that Israel should help Morocco advance its claims following Spain’s recognition of Palestine.

Then, on 15 July, the US House passed a bill whose accompanying committee report described Ceuta and Melilla as “located in Moroccan territory” and called for $40m in military funding for Morocco.

After the crossings began, US and Israeli political figures quickly used the crisis to attack the Spanish government.