EU Praises Spain’s Rapid Response to Ceuta Migrant Surge

Sun Sep 06 2026 04:37:11 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

European Union commends Spanish authorities for swift handling of 72,000 migrants arriving in Ceuta, amid Italy’s Schengen hold‑up.

The EU applauded Spain’s quick action as tens of thousands of migrants swamped Ceuta in July, prompting a meeting of interior ministers. Spain’s Interior Minister noted 72,000 entries and 70,000 repatriations, while 75 deaths occurred on the Spanish side and 11 in Morocco. Italy reacted by suspending its Schengen agreement, but kept the restriction to air travel. The EU stressed united border security, offered emergency funds, and highlighted civilian aid efforts, including food distribution by the Red Cross.

Following the mass arrival of 72,000 migrants across the Mediterranean to Ceuta, the European Union’s interior ministers convened a meeting that concluded in praise of Spain’s rapid response.

Spain’s Interior Minister Fernando Grande‑Marlaska announced that about 70,000 of the newcomers had already been sent back to Morocco, while the country accepted an estimated 70,000 repatriates. The crisis also led to 75 deaths on the Spanish side of the border and 11 in Morocco.

Italy had described Ceuta images as “shocking” and temporarily suspended its Schengen agreement, affecting flights but leaving the land border untouched. Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan emphasized the need for a united European reaction, calling migration a collective challenge.

The EU offered Spain emergency financial support to reinforce borders and mentioned the role of criminal networks and social‑media misinformation in the surge. Madrid insisted the Supreme Court ruling saw migrants refusing to force return to Morocco, causing a surge the government had not foreseen.

While some migrants remained on beaches with makeshift banners demanding asylum, Spanish officials stressed respect for migrants’ rights, especially minors, and earmarked €25 million for child care in Ceuta.