Brussels, Aug. 2: The European Union has called an emergency meeting for Tuesday after an unprecedented influx of nearly 60,000 migrants into the Spanish-controlled North African enclave of Ceuta triggered sharp divisions among member states over border security and migration policy.
According to reports, thousands of migrants entered the enclave from Morocco, prompting several EU countries to demand tougher measures to protect the bloc’s external borders.
Italy has temporarily suspended its participation in the Schengen free movement arrangement with Spain, citing security concerns. Denmark and Finland have backed Italy’s position and called for the reintroduction of stricter border controls.
In a joint letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and other EU leaders, 22 member states warned that the mass illegal crossings pose a serious threat to the European Union’s migration system and border security. The letter was signed by leaders from countries including the Netherlands, Finland and Belgium.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez strongly rejected the criticism, describing the actions of some partner nations as “selfish, divisive, unlawful and driven by prejudice.” He argued that Ceuta is not part of the Schengen area and said Spain had restored full control of the border within 48 hours, preventing further unauthorized entry into mainland Europe.
Spanish authorities said most of the migrants who entered Ceuta on July 30 have already been returned. However, the death toll from attempted sea crossings has risen to at least 67.
Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska said normal life and commercial activities in Ceuta are gradually returning, while work is underway to install floating barriers to prevent further illegal sea crossings.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz called on Morocco to immediately take back migrants who crossed illegally, while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the situation as “unacceptable” and urged all parties to respect EU rules. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham also expressed support for Spain during talks with Sánchez.
The crisis has intensified debate over Europe’s migration policy and raised fresh concerns about the future of free movement within the European Union.
