Migrant Emergency in Ceuta: Thousands Arrive by Sea from Morocco

The Spanish enclave of Ceuta is facing an unprecedented migrant crisis as thousands of individuals, including women, children, and disabled people, have arrived from Morocco. Security forces in Morocco reportedly made no effort to halt the surge, which occurred over a short period, initially by sea and then via land crossings.

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We feel abandoned, without protection. Thousands of migrants are in the streets and wandering without knowing where to go

Video footage captured scenes of drenched individuals reaching the shore and long lines of people on the hills bordering Ceuta. This situation echoes the severe crisis of May 2021, when over 8,000 migrants crossed the border in 48 hours, leading to significant humanitarian and diplomatic challenges with Rabat.

In response, Madrid is preparing to deploy the army to manage the situation. European Union officials are monitoring the crisis closely and pledging support for border protection. Meanwhile, sources in Rome indicate that the Italian government is considering suspending the Schengen agreement with Spain due to the escalating pressure.

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They don't find legal ways. their only chance is to throw themselves into the sea and enter Ceuta

The enclave's president, Juan Jesus Vivas, had previously raised alarms about the increasing migratory pressure, reporting an arrival rate of 300 people per day by sea. He declared it an "absolute humanitarian and social emergency" and urged Madrid to declare a national state of emergency, establish unified command, and reinforce security forces. The Ceuta Assembly unanimously passed a motion calling for the temporary closure of the Moroccan border, deeming it "the most serious crisis in recent years."

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We are facing an absolute humanitarian and social emergency