Spain's Chief of Defence Staff (Jemad), Admiral General Teodoro Esteban López Calderón, established a working group to analyze and plan responses to risks posed by Morocco's activities within and outside Spain. This group complements the existing, currently inactive, National Security Department group.
The Jemad's initiative, while prioritizing Spain's interests, is seen by some military officials as potentially controversial given the government's policy of appeasement toward Morocco. Concerns exist regarding Spain's vulnerabilities to Moroccan influence and intelligence gathering.
The relationship between Spain and Morocco has been strained by events such as:
The creation of the working group highlights Spain's concerns about Moroccan activities while simultaneously underlining the importance of counter-terrorism cooperation. The inactivity of the National Security Department group raises concerns. The Jemad's actions are considered essential for safeguarding Spain's interests, even if they generate political friction.