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Spain deploys troops to Ceuta after migrant surge sparks EU tensions with Italy
Spain deploys troops to Ceuta as thousands of migrants overwhelm border in chaotic surge
Ceuta declares humanitarian emergency as migrant arrivals overwhelm Spanish enclave
Spain deployed military units to its North African enclave of Ceuta on Thursday to restore order after thousands of migrants entered from Morocco, overwhelming local authorities. The surge has led to at least nine deaths and sparked diplomatic tensions with Italy, which is considering suspending the Schengen agreement with Spain.
The Spanish government announced the deployment of soldiers to reinforce police in Ceuta, following reports that hundreds of migrants had entered the territory mainly by swimming around border barriers. Local authorities described the situation as an "absolute humanitarian and social emergency," with the city's resources overwhelmed by the influx.
"Viva España!" some migrants were heard shouting as they crossed the border, according to reports. The chaotic scenes have created a political headache for Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who has faced criticism for his government's handling of immigration.
At least nine migrants have died in the attempt to reach Ceuta, with rescue operations ongoing. The Spanish government and Moroccan authorities have agreed to expedite the return of those who entered illegally, although human rights groups have criticized the practice of summary expulsions.
The crisis has also strained relations between Spain and Italy. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has called for the suspension of the Schengen agreement with Spain, arguing that the situation poses a threat to European security. Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares responded by summoning the Italian ambassador for explanations, accusing Italy of politicizing the crisis.
Ceuta and the nearby enclave of Melilla are the European Union's only land borders with Africa and have long been major entry points for migrants seeking to reach Europe. The latest influx follows a week in which more than 1,500 migrants reportedly reached Ceuta by swimming across the sea.
Local authorities in Ceuta have requested the declaration of a national emergency to manage the crisis. The city's only reception center is overwhelmed, with migrants seen sleeping in the streets and swimming in the sea with inflatable rings and tires.
The Spanish government has reinforced the presence of police and military units in Ceuta, with additional troops and equipment being deployed to manage the situation. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is scheduled to visit Ceuta on Friday to assess the situation firsthand.
The crisis has highlighted the ongoing challenges of managing migration flows into Europe, with Ceuta and Melilla serving as key entry points for migrants from Africa. The situation has also underscored the political tensions within the EU over immigration policies and border security.
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