Spain Deploys Military to Ceuta as Thousands of Migrants Flood In From Morocco

Spain is sending its military to the border city of Ceuta to restore order after thousands of migrants surged across from Morocco, overwhelming local authorities. The influx on Thursday saw large crowds breach the border fence, prompting the central government in Madrid to announce the deployment of the Armed Forces to assist the Civil Guard.

“

The situation is absolute chaos. It’s not possible to give precise numbers, but there are thousands of migrants crossing

Local officials described the situation as "absolute chaos," with the border having "totally collapsed." Thousands of people, predominantly young men but also including women and children, were seen crossing into the Spanish territory. The surge follows a rise in migrant attempts to reach Ceuta by sea, which resulted in at least three deaths on Wednesday.

The escalation comes after a recent Spanish Supreme Court decision that migrants arriving by sea cannot be immediately deported. While Moroccan authorities have not issued a public statement, Spain's Interior Ministry reported close cooperation, with Moroccan police reportedly stopping many individuals attempting to cross. Both nations have agreed to work together for the swift return of those who entered Ceuta illegally.

“

The Tarajal border was opened under unusual circumstances this morning and people crossed

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced he would visit Ceuta on Friday with the Interior Minister. The enclave's authorities had previously requested the declaration of a national emergency due to the migration concerns, a move the government stated it could not make solely over migration issues.

“

Viva España!