The Moroccan sultan tried to achieve the surrender of Ceuta and some minor garrisons, or a monetary payment in exchange for peace.

King Charles IV refused these terms and formally declared war on Morocco, restarting the conflict on August 15, 1791.

The offensive was carried out in conjunction with the navy, which escorted land forces that left the city to cause massive damage to the Moroccan batteries.

On September 14, following the directives of the Sultan, Sharif Ali asked to negotiate with the governor of Ceuta as he faced low morale within his ranks.

In addition to demoralization, he faced a massive economic cost associated with the siege, and an uprising by the Sultan's brothers who disputed the throne.