Sánchez calls Ceuta migrant breach an 'attack on Spain' as 57 drown
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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez on Friday called the breach of the Ceuta enclave by tens of thousands of migrants an 'attack' on Spain and a violation of its territorial integrity, as the death toll from drownings rose to 57. Madrid deployed troops to the North African exclave for the first time since 2021, while Italy suspended the Schengen agreement with Spain amid the surge.
The Breach
An estimated 60,000 migrants crossed from Morocco into the Spanish exclave of Ceuta over recent days, according to local authorities. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, visiting Ceuta on Friday, called it an 'attack' on Spain's territorial integrity. The Spanish government responded by deploying troops to Ceuta for the first time since 2021. The exclave, home to 85,000 residents, saw its population effectively double in days.
Migrant Deaths and Returns
At least 57 migrants drowned while attempting to reach Ceuta by sea from Morocco, dpa reported. Despite the large influx, the Spanish government said tens of thousands of migrants voluntarily returned to Morocco through the land border. By Friday evening, Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares declared on X that the crisis was 'practically overcome,' with almost all who had entered Ceuta having returned. The European Commission confirmed that no migrant had reached mainland Europe.
International Fallout and Local Unrest
Italy unilaterally suspended the Schengen agreement with Spain on July 31, citing security concerns. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said the suspension was a 'necessary measure to protect our citizens and European borders.' Meanwhile, Ceuta residents protested against the influx, accusing the government of losing control. Many shops remained closed amid fears of looting, and residents told RTVE they were afraid to leave their homes.
What's Next
The Spanish government is expected to reinforce border security and pursue diplomatic talks with Morocco. It remains unclear whether the mass return of migrants will ease tensions in Ceuta or if further waves could follow.
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Sánchez calls Ceuta migrant breach an 'attack on Spain' as 57 drown
