Tens of thousands of migrants crossed into Spain’s North African enclave of Ceuta in just 24 hours, overwhelming local authorities and triggering a diplomatic row across Europe as Madrid pushes for a united EU response instead of unilateral border measures.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has called for an emergency meeting of European Union leaders after criticizing what he described as the “selfish, polarising and unlawful” response of some member states to the unprecedented migrant surge into Ceuta.
The appeal comes after an estimated 60,000 migrants crossed from Morocco into the Spanish territory within a day, creating one of the largest migration emergencies Europe has faced in recent years. The influx overwhelmed the small enclave, prompting Spain to deploy additional security forces while working with Moroccan authorities to manage the crisis.
Speaking after visiting Ceuta, Sánchez argued that the crisis should not become a political weapon within Europe. Instead, he urged EU partners to show solidarity and coordinate a common response, warning that migration pressure on one member state is ultimately a challenge for the entire bloc.
SEE ALSO: Spain Deploys Military as Thousands Cross into Enclave of Ceuta from Morocco
His remarks followed criticism from several European leaders, including Italy, which announced tighter controls on travel from Spain, while other countries called for tougher border measures. Sánchez rejected those actions, insisting they undermine European unity at a time when cooperation is needed most.
Spanish officials say thousands of migrants have already returned voluntarily to Morocco, while authorities continue reinforcing security around Ceuta. Spain has also begun installing additional maritime barriers aimed at preventing further mass crossings as discussions with Morocco continue.
The crisis has once again placed Ceuta at the centre of Europe’s migration debate, highlighting the pressure on the EU’s external borders and raising fresh questions about how member states should respond when humanitarian emergencies quickly evolve into political disputes.
