Tensions Rise Between Israel and Spain Over Moroccan LORA Missile Development
Tensions Rise Between Israel and Spain Over Moroccan LORA Missile Development," explores the escalating diplomatic tensions between Israel and Spain following Morocco's advanced stages of testing a locally produced version of the LORA missile. The piece highlights the missile's capabilities, including its solid-fuel technology, minimal maintenance requirements, and impressive range, which have raised security concerns in Spain. In response, Spain is considering deploying air defense batteries on the island of Badis and in Ceuta and Melilla. The article also discusses the broader implications of these developments, including the strained relations between Israel and Spain due to Spain's recognition of the Palestinian state and potential Israeli retaliation measures. Overall, the article provides a comprehensive analysis of the geopolitical dynamics at play and the impact of missile technology on regional security.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
Relations between Israel and Spain have reached a boiling point after it was discovered that Morocco is in advanced stages of testing a locally produced version of the LORA missile, according to reports from The Jerusalem Post. The solid-fuel powered LORA missile, which requires minimal maintenance for up to 6 years and has a range of 400 km, has prompted Spain to consider deploying air defense batteries on the island of Badis following a recent visit by the Defense Minister. Spain is also considering deploying the batteries in the cities of Ceuta and Melilla.
Moroccan LORA Missile Capabilities
The Moroccan version of the LORA missile, based on the Israeli design, utilizes solid fuel technology and has an impressive range of 400 km. Its low maintenance requirements, with only periodic checks needed over a 6-year period, make it an attractive option for Morocco's defense capabilities. The missile's advanced features have raised concerns in Spain about the potential threat it poses to the country's security.
Spanish Response and Tensions with Israel
In response to the Moroccan LORA missile development, Spain is reportedly considering deploying air defense batteries on the island of Badis, which lies off the coast of Morocco. The Defense Minister's recent visit to the region has fueled speculation that Spain is taking the threat seriously and is willing to take proactive measures to protect its interests.The tensions between Israel and Spain have escalated due to Spain's recognition of the Palestinian state and the recent comments made by Defense Minister Margarita Robles, who described the situation in Gaza as a "real genocide." These developments have strained the already tense relations between the two countries, with Israel recalling its ambassador in response to Spain's recognition of Palestine.
Potential Retaliation from Israel
It is believed that Israel may have prepared a series of commercial, economic, and financial measures to retaliate against Spain's decision to recognize the Palestinian state. These measures could potentially include retaliation by Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant against the security and defense cooperation programs that Israel has agreed upon with Spain's Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Interior.The intelligence information that Margarita Robles has received from the CNI (National Intelligence Center) director, Esperanza Casteleiro, does not align with the criteria expressed by some Spanish intelligence directors or the data received by senior officials of the national defense industry from their sources in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.In conclusion, the development of the Moroccan LORA missile has exacerbated the already tense relations between Israel and Spain, leading to concerns about potential retaliation from Israel and the deployment of Spanish air defense batteries in strategic locations. The situation highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region and the potential impact of advanced missile technology on regional stability.
