The European Union will convene emergency talks on Tuesday to address the migration crisis in Ceuta, following a significant influx of migrants and tense exchanges between Spain and other member states. The urgency stems from a joint letter by 22 member states calling for a coordinated response and enhanced EU external border security.
Nearly 60,000 migrants reportedly entered the Spanish enclave of Ceuta from Morocco, a situation that led to Spain condemning what it termed “selfish, polarizing and unlawful” reactions from some EU partners. Italy, with support from Finland and Denmark, suspended the EU's border-free Schengen arrangement with Spain. Officials state that most of the migrants who arrived on July 30 have since been returned, with the death toll from the crossings rising to at least 67.
The joint letter, addressed to EU President Antonio Costa, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and the current Council of the European Union president from Ireland, expressed concerns about "hybrid threats to create the perception that illegal entry into the European Union is possible." The signatories warned that such a perception could encourage further attempts, undermine confidence in common migration policies, and affect all member states.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also conveyed “serious concerns” in a separate letter to von der Leyen, criticizing the actions of some European governments. Sánchez asserted that Spain had regained full border control and prevented unauthorized movement into continental Europe within 48 hours. He noted that while many nations offered support, others attacked Spain based on prejudice or misinformation, adding that Ceuta is not part of the Schengen area.