Spain Deploys Military to Ceuta as Thousands of Migrants Cross from Morocco

Spanish military units have been deployed to bolster police efforts in the city of Ceuta, a Spanish enclave on the North African coast, following a significant surge in migrant arrivals from Morocco. Thousands of individuals reportedly breached border fences and swam across the sea, overwhelming the local law enforcement capacity.

Video footage captured the dramatic scenes as hundreds of migrants arrived by sea, with some breaking through a land gate and running into the city. One migrant, Jadid Zacaria, described the crossing as "very tough" but credited their "will and determination" for reaching Ceuta. Authorities reported the discovery of nine deceased individuals, adding to the toll of migrants who have died attempting to reach the territory in recent months.

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It was very tough. The police tried to stop us. But our will and determination allowed us to come here.

In response, the Spanish government has dispatched 200 specialized police officers and 60 troops from the mainland to reinforce the enclave's security forces. The situation is reminiscent of a 2021 event when approximately 10,000 migrants entered Ceuta over several days. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is scheduled to visit Ceuta to meet with security forces and local authorities.

Local businesses expressed concern over the escalating tension. Enrique Serrano, owner of a women's clothing store, stated he would close his shop for the afternoon, prioritizing the protection of his business and family. He noted that business owners were organizing self-defense measures, anticipating insufficient police resources. Ceuta and the nearby Spanish city of Melilla represent the European Union's only land borders with Africa, and both periodically experience substantial increases in attempted migrant crossings.

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I'm not opening this afternoon because the situation is extremely tense … The first thing I have to do is protect my business and my family.