Spain PM to visit Ceuta after 34 migrants die crossing from Morocco

Ceuta, the Spanish enclave on the North‑African coast, has reported a surge in illegal crossings, with regional authorities claiming that around 60,000 migrants entered the city by land and sea in recent weeks. The figure, announced by the regional governor, reflects a combination of overland routes from Morocco and maritime arrivals that have overwhelmed local police and border‑control units.

European Union leaders have condemned the situation, describing it as “unacceptable” and calling for a coordinated response. The EU Commissioner for Home Affairs highlighted the strain on Spain’s border‑security infrastructure and urged member states to strengthen cooperation with Moroccan authorities to curb the flow. The statement follows a series of incidents in which migrants have attempted to cross the Strait of Gibraltar in small boats, often at great risk to their safety.

In response, Spanish officials have increased patrols along the Ceuta‑Morocco border and are exploring additional measures, including the deployment of extra naval vessels and the expansion of temporary detention facilities. The EU’s call for a joint strategy underscores the broader challenge of managing migration flows in the region while maintaining security and humanitarian standards.