Dozens killed during border surge

Spanish authorities said 57 bodies were recovered on the Spanish side of the border, while additional deaths were possible on the Moroccan side. Officials reported that some migrants drowned, while others were crushed during attempts to climb the breakwater surrounding the border fence. Spain’s Interior Ministry estimated that around 50,000 people crossed into Ceuta, with approximately 48,300 returning by the evening. Local officials noted that the total number of people involved could have reached 60,000.

Security forces block further crossings

Moroccan security forces used batons and tear gas to disperse crowds attempting to enter Ceuta, while Spanish forces were deployed along the border. Reporters witnessed migrants returning through official crossings and openings in the fence, with some stating they lacked food and shelter after reaching the Spanish territory. One young Moroccan migrant shared that he did not even know why he came and was heading back, noting he had not eaten since the previous day.

Spain calls incident a sovereignty violation

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez visited Ceuta and described the mass crossing as a violation of Spain’s territorial sovereignty. He stated that authorities were accelerating the return of those who entered illegally, with Morocco’s cooperation. Ceuta and Melilla are Spanish territories in northern Morocco and represent the European Union’s only land borders with Africa. Although both areas regularly see attempted migrant crossings, officials described this surge as unprecedented.

European reaction

The incident triggered debate across Europe, with several governments calling on Spain to contain the situation. Italy announced plans to suspend parts of the EU’s Schengen border-free arrangements with Spain, a move Madrid criticized as contrary to EU rules. France stated it would increase police presence along its border with Spain and strengthen surveillance measures. Meanwhile, political leaders in several countries blamed Spain’s migration policies for encouraging illegal crossings, while Spanish officials rejected those claims.

Migrants continue leaving Morocco border area

On the Moroccan side, thousands of migrants gathered near the town of Fnideq as security forces strengthened controls. Although most crossing attempts were stopped, some groups continued searching for routes around the border fence before gradually dispersing.