Melilla border with Morocco reopens after migrant crisis closure

The border between the Spanish enclave of Melilla and Morocco has gradually reopened after a 36-hour closure triggered by a severe migrant crisis. In the first nine hours of its reopening, nearly 800 vehicles made the crossing in both directions. Around 600 vehicles traveled from Melilla to Morocco, while another 200 crossed from Morocco into Melilla. The Beni-Enzar crossing, the sole link between the autonomous city and Morocco, is currently handling vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The reopening follows a reduction in migratory pressure after several attempts at irregular crossings into Melilla. Authorities describe the situation at the border as calm, allowing for the gradual resumption of traffic. To prevent overcrowding and ensure security, vehicles are being allowed to pass in groups of 20. This controlled approach aims to maintain a clear border zone in case of renewed attempts by migrants to enter. Currently, priority is given to vehicles participating in the Operation Passage of the Strait (OPE) that were stranded during the closure. Approximately 700 such vehicles, carrying around 2,000 people, are being accommodated, many of whom had been waiting since Thursday night. The border closure was implemented after the initial attempts at irregular entry.