Spain deploys military to Ceuta following major migrant surge

On Thursday, July 30, 2026, the Spanish North African enclave of Ceuta experienced a massive influx of migrants crossing from Morocco. Estimates from Spanish state television indicate that between 2,000 and 3,000 individuals entered the territory, many of whom reached the shore by swimming around the Tarajal breakwater using flotation devices, while others breached border fences. The tragedy resulted in at least 18 deaths during the crossing attempts.

In response to the overwhelmed security services, the Spanish Interior Ministry ordered the deployment of military support, including three 20-person platoons, a diving unit, and a naval vessel, alongside 200 special police personnel. The crisis has triggered significant diplomatic friction between Spain and Italy, leading the Spanish government to summon the Italian ambassador after Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani suggested that Spain should be suspended from the Schengen Area due to its handling of the border situation.

Ceuta and the neighboring enclave of Melilla serve as the European Union's only land borders with Africa, frequently experiencing such surges. Authorities have closed the Beni Enzar crossing in Melilla as a precautionary measure and urged residents to avoid border areas while security operations remain ongoing.