Spanish leader slams ‘selfish’ EU response as death toll from Ceuta crossings climbs

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has sharply criticized several European Union member states for what he termed a "selfish" response to a massive influx of migrants crossing into the Spanish exclave of Ceuta from Morocco. The crisis has resulted in at least 67 reported deaths, with many drowning as crowds overwhelmed border guards on land and sea.

“

such an attitude was “driven by prejudice, fake news, ignorance or political interest.”

In a strongly worded letter, Sánchez denounced the "selfish, polarizing and unlawful reaction" from countries like Italy and France. Italy temporarily placed border controls on travel from Spain, while France's Interior Minister ordered enhanced checks along their shared border. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni even called for Spain's suspension from the Schengen agreement. Sánchez argued that such attitudes were "driven by prejudice, fake news, ignorance or political interest," adding that the EU "cannot afford this kind of selfish, polarizing and unlawful reaction."

Ireland, holding the EU's rotating presidency, announced an emergency meeting for national ministers to address the situation. Irish Justice, Home Affairs, and Migration Minister Jim O’Callaghan stated he was in close contact with EU member states and monitoring the developments. Spanish officials aim to expedite the expulsion of irregular migrants, a process complicated by a recent Spanish Supreme Court ruling that authorities cannot summarily deport sea arrivals without due process.

“

In the current international context, the European Union cannot afford this kind of selfish, polarising and unlawful reaction,” he added.

Many of the estimated 50,000 to 60,000 people who attempted the crossing had returned to Morocco by Friday evening. Reuters observed hundreds returning through border posts and fence breaches, some citing a lack of food and shelter in Ceuta. Spanish authorities have begun installing a floating barrier near the Tarajal breakwater, a key entry point, to align with the Supreme Court's July ruling. The mass crossings occurred after misinformation, allegedly spread by traffickers following the court's decision, prompted many migrants to attempt the journey.

“

continuing to monitor the situation.