Border control units in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta recovered the bodies of at least 16 people from the waters over a recent 24-hour period, according to a report by La Vanguardia. This latest recovery brings the total death toll of foreign migrants found dead in the waters trying to reach the enclave from Morocco this year to 44, approaching the total of 46 recorded at the end of last year.
Human Wave Overwhelms Ceuta Border Defenses
Moroccan security forces did not attempt to stop the influx of men, women carrying infants, children, and people with disabilities who bypassed border controls by sea and land, according to eyewitness accounts. For days, Guardia Civil drones, laser systems, and patrol boats pursued young people attempting to swim around the Tarajal breakwater. The situation escalated when thousands of people moved toward the border in daylight, running toward the double fence.
Images of soaked arrivals and columns of people on hills near Ceuta recalled the crisis of May 2021, when over 8,000 migrants crossed the border in 48 hours, creating a diplomatic standoff with Rabat. Juan Jesus Vivas, president of the enclave, stated that the area faced an absolute humanitarian and social crisis after 1,500-2,000 people arrived by swimming over the course of a week at a rate of 300 per day. Vivas called on Madrid to declare a national state of emergency, establish a single command, and deploy the army.
Did you know?
The May 2021 surge saw over 8,000 people cross into Ceuta in just two days, provoking a grave humanitarian and diplomatic crisis with Rabat.
Diplomatic Clash Between Rome and Madrid Erupts
Following the border breach, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated that uncontrolled illegal immigration represents a concrete threat to the security of European borders, adding that she was prepared to suspend the Schengen agreement with Spain after consulting Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani echoed these remarks on social media.
Madrid responded by summoning the Italian ambassador to Spain in protest. Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares called the statements from Italian officials undignified, demanding European solidarity rather than partisan demagogy. Meanwhile, the European Union stated it is monitoring the situation and committed to protecting its external borders.
Drivers Behind the Migration Surge and Legal Factors
Poverty, a lack of local prospects, and social media expectations combined with favorable weather and calm seas near the Strait of Gibraltar to drive the crossing attempt. Ismail El Makdoubi, an immigrant and president of the Exmenas association, explained that a lack of legal pathways forces individuals to swim to Ceuta. El Makdoubi noted that a recent Spanish Supreme Court ruling excluding immediate pushbacks for those who swim to the enclave has spread the belief among migrants and traffickers that crossing has become easier.
Residents of Ceuta described feeling abandoned as migrants wander the streets without shelter. The local assembly approved an urgent motion requesting the temporary closure of the border with Morocco. Among those who entered the enclave was Farath, a champion of the Moroccan national volleyball team, whose arrival was captured by local media.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ceuta?
Ceuta is a Spanish autonomous city and enclave located on the North African coast, sharing a land border with Morocco.
How many migrants have died trying to reach Ceuta this year?
According to La Vanguardia, border authorities have recovered the bodies of 44 individuals from the water this year.
Why did Italy threaten to suspend Schengen?
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated that uncontrolled immigration poses a security threat, prompting discussions on suspending the Schengen agreement with Spain following the latest arrivals.
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