Spain: Tensions rise in Ceuta as protesters burn migrants' belongings

The Spanish exclave of Ceuta has seen renewed unrest in recent days, as local residents have taken to the streets to protest against politicians and migrants. The situation escalated on Wednesday when thousands of Ceuta residents demonstrated, with some reportedly attempting to lynch migrants before police intervened.

Social media has been flooded with unconfirmed videos alleging crimes by migrants, fueling fear and resentment among the local population. This paranoia has extended beyond perceived nationality, with one man reportedly attacked for filming in Ceuta simply because he appeared Moroccan. Protesters also blocked a Red Cross aid truck from reaching migrants on Thursday, hindering efforts to distribute essential supplies like food.

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Violence is not the solution. I ask people to calm down and stop all violence, because violence is not a way to solve any complex problem.

Journalists reporting on the protests have also faced hostility, with several being assaulted, harassed, or prevented from working. On Thursday, protesters clashed violently with police on a beach where migrants were sleeping, and also burned migrants' belongings and makeshift shelters. Authorities arrested 12 migrants after they allegedly threw stones at an army patrol vehicle, injuring one soldier.

Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska urged calm and condemned the violence, stating that it is not a solution to complex problems. He accused the far-right Vox party and the conservative People's Party of inciting hatred and social division, calling for responsibility and composure instead. In response to the escalating situation, Spain will send 40 riot police officers to Ceuta to prevent further confrontations. Meanwhile, members of the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) have labeled the rhetoric from Vox and the People's Party as racist.

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In recent weeks, we have heard speeches and statements that stigmatize migrants and fuel social division, when what we really need now is responsibility, composure, and national duty.