An Italian minister extends the suspension of the Schengen Agreement with Spain by 15 days due to a jihadist threat and a migrant crisis in Ceuta.

Tajani said during a press conference on the sidelines of the EU Foreign Ministers' meeting in Wicklow, Ireland, that "the extension of the suspension of the Schengen Agreement exclusively with Spain is due to the desire to protect our security, as there remains a jihadist threat in recent days," pointing out that the deportation of three individuals believed to be linked to jihadist currents from the enclave of Ceuta confirms the danger of terrorism.

The minister, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister, added that "what is happening in Ceuta is unfortunately visible to all, and the situation has not yet been resolved positively," expressing hope that the new 15-day extension will be the last, while emphasizing the need to "conduct all necessary investigations to ensure the security of our borders and national territory against irregular migration and any potential jihadist threat."

This diplomatic escalation comes at a time when Ceuta, the Spanish enclave in North Africa, is witnessing a severe migration crisis, as more than 10,000 migrants remain stranded in the city following the influx wave witnessed at the end of last July, amid popular protests and fears of a repetition of the scenario.

The Italian Ministry of Interior had announced the extension of border control measures with Spain, based on an assessment that concluded "the continuation of the conditions" that prompted their imposition in early August.