Calm urged in Ceuta after mass migrant entry and clashes

Governments in Spain and Ceuta are appealing for calm as tensions remain high in the Spanish enclave nearly a month after a massive influx of migrants from Morocco. The situation has been exacerbated by recent clashes, including an assault on soldiers, highlighting the ongoing strain on the territory.

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The tension in the city of Ceuta is very high because there are no responses from the central government and the inhabitants feel abandoned.

The pressure has been building since late July when over 70,000 migrants entered the small Spanish territory in North Africa. While many were returned to Morocco, thousands remained, facing difficulties accessing basic necessities like food, water, and shelter. This has led to growing protests from Ceuta residents, who cite security and hygiene concerns and accuse the central government of neglect.

Recent incidents have further inflamed the situation. A protest by residents turned violent when police used tear gas to prevent confrontations with migrants. In a separate event, a military vehicle carrying four soldiers was ambushed by approximately 70 migrants who reportedly threw stones, forcing the soldiers to flee and seek police assistance. Twelve migrants, all Moroccan nationals, were arrested following the incident, which left one soldier with minor injuries.

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Message of calm, of confidence in the State (...) to the citizens of Ceuta.

Local officials have expressed frustration, with one councilor stating that the high tension stems from a lack of response from the central government, leaving inhabitants feeling abandoned. While calling for non-violence, she acknowledged the right to protest but urged a peaceful approach. In Madrid, the Justice Minister assured Ceuta's citizens of the government's commitment to restoring normalcy, emphasizing ongoing efforts to manage the situation.

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We are working tirelessly until normality is restored in the autonomous city.

The Spanish government has recently implemented measures to provide shelter for migrants and expedite their return to Morocco. A "unified command" led by the Minister of Territorial Policy has been established to manage the crisis, though officials have requested patience from Ceuta's residents as each migrant is identified to determine their eligibility for asylum or deportation.

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We ask for understanding from the people of Ceuta, reminding them that the authorities have to identify each migrant to determine if they have the right to asylum or can be...