Spain deploys army to Ceuta as thousands of migrants cross from Morocco

Spain has mobilized its army to the enclave of Ceuta, deploying military forces to support the Civil Guard in restoring order after thousands of migrants crossed the border from Morocco. Local authorities warned the city could no longer handle the situation, with estimates of 2,000 to 3,000 people arriving by sea or land border. The migrants are primarily young men, but women and children were also among those who arrived.

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The president of the autonomous community requested the declaration of a national emergency.

The influx has triggered diplomatic tensions between Italy and Spain. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated she is considering suspending Italy's participation in the Schengen area concerning Spain, citing the need to protect borders and citizen security. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani publicly supported temporarily reintroducing controls for arrivals from Spain, arguing that Madrid's policy of regularizing undocumented foreigners creates an "attraction effect" for trafficking networks.

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We are considering suspending Italy's participation in the Schengen area in relation to Spain.

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares deemed the Italian statements "inappropriate" and summoned Italy's ambassador for an explanation, accusing Italy of politicizing the crisis. Spain clarified that regularization does not automatically grant citizenship or immediate European rights. Meanwhile, the Spanish government delegation in Ceuta confirmed at least nine deaths during the crossings, though the exact circumstances remain unclear. Spanish authorities stated that Morocco is cooperating to limit further crossings, with Moroccan police intercepting many migrants attempting to reach Spanish territory. Both nations are working to expedite the return of those who entered illegally.

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The policy of regularizing undocumented foreigners creates an attraction effect for trafficking networks.