Spain PM calls migrant surge in Ceuta 'attack on territorial integrity'

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez forcefully condemned the massive arrival of nearly 40,000 migrants in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta from Morocco, labeling it a "violation and attack on Spain's territorial integrity."

"The Spanish government stands with the city of Ceuta," Sánchez stated, acknowledging the "emotional state and anguish" of its residents. He arrived in Ceuta to manage one of the country's most significant migration crises, which necessitated the deployment of the army. Migrants continued to arrive throughout the night and into Friday morning, with reports indicating that 18 people died attempting to reach the territory.

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The Spanish government stands with the city of Ceuta. We acknowledge the emotional state and anguish that they are experiencing during these last hours.

This sudden and overwhelming influx has escalated into an international crisis. Italy and Finland have voiced criticism, while France has reinforced its border controls with Spain. In response, Spain's Interior Ministry dispatched troops, Civil Guards, and police, including a diving team, a ship, and drones, to bolster security in Ceuta. Sánchez met with security forces and regional officials upon his arrival.

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A violation and attack on Spain's territorial integrity.

The exact reasons for the sudden surge remain unclear, though some migrants claimed they heard the border was open. Many were young men and adolescents. One migrant, Abdelhakim, recounted a perilous journey, stating, "We were told to cross by sea. But I found myself completely submerged and saw two young men... die before my eyes." He ultimately retreated, remembering his two children.

This event bears a resemblance to the May 2021 crisis, when over 10,000 people crossed the border into Ceuta within two days, reportedly due to a relaxation of controls by Morocco.

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We were told to cross by sea. But I found myself completely submerged and saw two young men... die before my eyes.