The visit of Princess Leonor to Ceuta has sparked an unexpected reaction in Morocco. Although her stay was discreet and strictly linked to her military training, Moroccan media have replied with harsh criticism and deep political meanings. The latent tensions between Madrid and Rabat have been rekindled by the presence of the heir to the Spanish throne, triggering an intense debate about sovereignty and shared history.
Specifically, the outlet Kawalisrif has published an unsigned article claiming that "the throne doesn't forget its colonies." It highlights that Leonor arrived in Ceuta on the frigate Blas de Lezo, not on a royal plane or official car, which symbolizes a military message from Spain to Morocco. The article criticizes the princess's participation in the Legionario Saturday, a military event honoring the fallen, seeing it as a symbolic reaffirmation of the Spanish "occupation" of Ceuta.
Meanwhile, the digital outlet Bladna24 has adopted a less aggressive but equally critical tone. It emphasizes that, although the visit wasn't official, it's loaded with political meanings that won't go unnoticed by Moroccans. This outlet recalls the tension that exists between the two countries regarding Ceuta and Melilla, cities that Morocco considers "occupied." Therefore, it points out that the princess's arrival reignites this controversy.
Leonor steps into Ceuta in a very discreet manner
Meanwhile, Princess Leonor has kept a low profile throughout her stay. She stayed at a central hotel in Ceuta and took part in very discreet events, far from large public gatherings. Her only official reception was on the ship Juan Carlos I, where she continues her military training as a midshipman, in an event convened by the rear admiral.
However, despite the discretion, the visit hasn't gone unnoticed in Ceuta, where it has been experienced with joy and pride. The city celebrates the presence of a member of the Spanish Royal Family eighteen years after the last visit by Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofía. In this context, gestures such as the Civil Guard playing the pasodoble "La Banderita" on a loop are interpreted as symbols of Spanish identity and belonging.
Leonor's visit makes the royal family the protagonist of a political episode
From the Moroccan point of view, the visit has been read as a provocation. The geographical proximity of Mohamed VI, just 14 mi. (22 km) from Ceuta, on the beaches of Kabila, fuels historical and political resentment. Some analysts believe that this trip can be seen as a reaffirmation by Spain over a city whose sovereignty Morocco has questioned for decades.
Ultimately, what seemed like a simple technical stopover of the frigate for maintenance has turned into a political episode with international repercussions. Princess Leonor, with her military profile, has become the center of a debate that goes beyond diplomacy and touches the historical and territorial sensitivity of the region. The Spanish throne, with this visit, has reminded that the history of its territories isn't easily forgotten, least of all in Ceuta.