A report accompanying a major United States budget bill has drawn attention after describing the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla as cities administered by Spain but located in Moroccan territory.
The Ceuta Melilla Sovereignty Dispute has long been a sensitive issue between Spain and Morocco. The latest wording in a report approved by the US House of Representatives has added a new dimension to the debate, although it does not change official American policy.
The language appears in documentation linked to the National Security, Department of State and Related Programs Appropriations Act for 2027. The spending package, valued at approximately $47.3 billion, was approved by the House of Representatives on July 15.
According to the report, Ceuta and Melilla are described as Spanish-administered cities located in Moroccan territory and remain the subject of Morocco’s longstanding claim. The report also expressed support for diplomatic engagement between Spain and Morocco regarding the future status of the two territories.
Ceuta and Melilla are located on the northern coast of Africa and are administered by Spain. They represent the European Union’s only land borders with the African continent. Morocco has historically claimed sovereignty over both cities, while Spain maintains that they are integral parts of its national territory.
Although the wording has attracted attention, congressional committee reports do not carry the force of law. They are used to provide guidance and explanations related to legislation but do not establish official foreign policy positions.
Current United States policy continues to recognize Ceuta and Melilla as Spanish territories. No formal change has been announced by the US government regarding their status.
The language in the report was included by Representative Mario Díaz-Balart of Florida. He serves as chairman of the appropriations subcommittee responsible for funding US diplomatic programs and is vice chairman of the broader appropriations committee.
Díaz-Balart has previously commented on the status of the cities. Earlier this year, he suggested that discussions regarding territorial questions should be resolved through dialogue between allies and friendly nations.
The report also highlighted the long-standing relationship between the United States and Morocco. It referenced the Treaty of Peace and Friendship signed in 1786, which remains one of the oldest active diplomatic agreements involving the United States.
In addition, the document proposed allocating at least $40 million in security investment and foreign military financing assistance for Morocco.
The report included criticism of Spain on separate issues. It raised concerns about defense spending commitments within NATO and referenced Madrid’s decision regarding the use of Spanish bases and airspace for certain military operations.
The Ceuta Melilla Sovereignty Dispute has gained increased attention in recent months due to migration pressures and political developments. The two cities often play a central role in discussions surrounding border security, migration, and relations between Europe and North Africa.
Recent migration events have renewed focus on the enclaves. Large numbers of people reportedly entered Ceuta during a recent border influx, prompting responses from Spanish and European officials.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the situation as a challenge to Spain’s territorial integrity. European Union leaders also called for measures to address the crossings and strengthen border management.
Political analysts note that sovereignty questions involving Ceuta and Melilla remain highly sensitive because of their historical significance and strategic location. Any statements from international institutions or foreign governments regarding the territories often attract close scrutiny from both Madrid and Rabat.
The spending bill that contains the report now moves to the United States Senate for further consideration. While the report language itself does not alter official policy, it has generated discussion about the future of the Ceuta Melilla Sovereignty Dispute and the diplomatic relationship between Spain, Morocco, and the United States.
For now, official US policy remains unchanged, but the wording included in the congressional report has added fresh attention to one of the longest-running territorial debates in the region.
