Spain has deployed military personnel to Ceuta after more than 1,500 migrants entered the North African enclave from Morocco in recent days, in what authorities describe as the most serious migration surge since 2021.
According to Spanish media reports, at least 18 people died attempting the sea crossing from Morocco.
Thousands of migrants have streamed into the tiny Spanish territory of Ceuta in North Africa from Morocco, prompting local officials to call for help from Spain’s national government in Madrid to restore the border. pic.twitter.com/S2fTWapBzR
— The Associated Press (@AP) July 30, 2026
Arrivals by land and sea
Thousands of migrants, mainly young men and teenagers, attempted to enter Ceuta either through the southern border crossing or by swimming around the coastal breakwater separating the enclave from Morocco.
Many arrived exhausted, while scenes of celebration were reported among those who successfully reached Spanish territory.
The following morning, beaches were littered with flippers, life jackets and wetsuits, highlighting the scale of the sea crossings.
INSANE FOOTAGE: Thousands of migrants continue crossing from Morocco into Spain’s Ceuta enclave, as local officials reportedly urge Madrid to declare a national emergency. pic.twitter.com/dlbbKOjBV1
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) July 30, 2026
Army deployed as facilities reach capacity
Spain's Interior Ministry dispatched 60 military personnel to assist the Guardia Civil and local authorities.
🚨Ceuta:
— Electodatos (@electodatos) July 30, 2026
‼️Cientos de inmigrantes siguen entrando sin control en la ciudad. pic.twitter.com/CE20NCV6vo
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is also expected to visit Ceuta to assess the situation and coordinate the government's response.
The president of the autonomous city, Juan Vivas, said reception facilities had exceeded capacity, with hundreds of migrants requiring food, water and medical assistance.
Spanish authorities have already begun procedures to return those who do not qualify for asylum.
Rumours blamed for border rush
Reports from Morocco suggest the surge was triggered by rumours that the border would be opened, prompting large crowds to gather near the frontier.
The situation echoes the 2021 crisis, when more than 10,000 migrants entered Ceuta over two days, triggering a major diplomatic dispute between Madrid and Rabat.
Spain-Italy dispute erupts
The crisis has also fuelled tensions between Spain and Italy.
Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares accused the Italian government of "demagoguery" after Rome called for Spain's participation in the Schengen area to be suspended following the influx.
Albares described comments by Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani as inappropriate and said Italy's ambassador in Madrid had been summoned to receive a formal protest.
