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A Unified European Army Necessary to Protect Against Moroccan Threats
In recent statements, retired Spanish Admiral Juan Rodríguez Garat emphasized that the establishment of a unified European army would play a vital role in protecting Ceuta and Melilla in the event of threats from Morocco.
In an interview with Spanish radio station "COPE" on Friday, Garat pointed out that "the European Union treaty does not impose geographical boundaries," clarifying that its aim is to "defend the integrity of all European territories." He asserted that any threat to the two occupied cities should be met with a response from all member states.
Garat also explained that "a unified European army would significantly enhance Spain's defensive capabilities and protect southern European territories." He expressed concern over the potential implications of Morocco's rearmament and increased military preparedness, noting that it could pose a future threat to Spanish territories, especially amidst ongoing tensions in the region.
The idea of forming a unified European army has resurfaced recently, as European countries seek to consolidate their military efforts to confront Russia and end the war in Ukraine, amidst differing positions between Europe and the United States.
The roots of this idea date back to the post-World War II period when France proposed the formation of a European army that would include forces from Belgium, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany, aiming to counter the Soviet threat without the need to rearm West Germany.
Garat's statements have sparked controversy in Morocco, particularly as his previous positions are regarded as "hostile" by many Moroccans.
