In pictures: Island dispute worsens

The row between Spain and Morocco over the sovereignty of a small island known as Perejil in Spain and as Leila in Morocco is rapidly deteriorating after Spanish troops evicted Moroccan soldiers.

Moroccan soldiers, monitored by a Spanish helicopter, raised the national flag last week. (AP)

Early on Wednesday morning, a Spanish force forcibly took the island back (AP)

The Spanish force included marines and air support

Spanish special forces in camouflage retake the island

Moroccan soldiers are led away after their brief stay on the island (AP/AFP)

The Spanish flag is now flying on the island (AP)

Spanish soldiers give the thumbs up for a successful job as a diplomatic crisis looms