The clashes erupted on 13 November, when the Moroccan forces launched an offensive on Guerguerat to seize control of the road passing by the village.[10] Moroccan authorities stated that had they launched the offensive in order to restore free circulation of civilian and commercial traffic in the area. In response, the Polisario Front's authorities stated that their forces were acting in self-defense, adding that the ceasefire was over and a war had started.[11]