evidence: But once Morocco gained its independence in 1956 after decades of rule by the French and Spanish, Spain refused to include Melilla and Ceuta as Moroccan territories. [...] For Spain and Morocco, the borders at Melilla and Ceuta have been used as a battleground for diplomatic disputes. [...] In retaliation for Ghali’s treatment, Morocco loosened its border controls in May 2021, resulting in 8,000 migrants crossing over into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta.