Spain Regains Control of Ceuta After Massive Migrant Surge, Dozens Dead

Spain regained control of its North African enclave of Ceuta after a massive migrant surge saw over 50,000 people cross from Morocco, resulting in dozens of deaths and heightened political tensions across Europe.

The unprecedented influx, which Spanish authorities described as "a violation of Spain's territorial sovereignty," prompted the deployment of Moroccan security forces who used batons and tear gas to push back crowds and prevent further crossings. Reuters reporters witnessed riot police firing tear gas and water cannon vehicles being used to disperse migrants. Burnt remains of vehicles were left in the aftermath of clashes.

By Friday evening, approximately 48,300 migrants had voluntarily returned to Morocco, with several hundred more crossing back through official checkpoints, citing difficulties in finding food or shelter in Ceuta. One migrant interviewed by Reuters stated, "I'm going back."

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who traveled to Ceuta amidst protests, emphasized the return of those who entered illegally with Morocco's cooperation. The incident exposed deep divisions within Europe over migration policy, with Italy temporarily suspending Schengen border-free travel with Spain, a move Madrid deemed a breach of EU treaties.

Right-wing parties across Europe blamed the crisis on Spain's recent amnesty for undocumented migrants, a claim echoed by Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, who linked the amnesty to increased human trafficking. US President Donald Trump weighed in, describing the situation as an "invasion" and warning it could happen in the US without Republican electoral wins. The US State Department criticized Spain's migration handling, threatening actions to protect Americans.

France announced a fivefold increase in police presence along its Spanish border by Saturday, alongside enhanced surveillance. Spain's Guardia Civil police association criticized the initial deployment of too few officers, leading to the mass crossings.

The crisis underscores the volatile migration dynamics at Europe's African borders, with Ceuta and Melilla regularly witnessing attempts by migrants to enter Europe.