Pedro Sánchez Denies Government Knowledge of Impending Ceuta Migration Crisis
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez told Congress that the government had no prior intelligence regarding the mass crossing of approximately 72,000 migrants into the enclave of Ceuta. While a leaked police report suggested Moroccan forces may have played a role in the influx, Sánchez maintained that no solid proof exists to confirm that Morocco planned or executed the incident. Sánchez defended the government's response, noting that more than 90% of the migrants were returned within 72 hours, which he described as one of the fastest return processes in European history. He attributed the surge to social media messages and human traffickers rather than a lack of foresight. Despite the lack of definitive proof regarding Morocco's involvement, Sánchez expressed frustration with the 'unacceptable' sovereignty claims made by Moroccan ministers. The crisis has sparked significant domestic and international pressure. Opposition leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo accused the government of a cover-up and called for the prime minister's resignation. Meanwhile, Italy has imposed temporary border restrictions on arrivals from Spain. Sánchez announced plans to request a permanent Frontex presence in Ceuta and Melilla and urged King Felipe VI to visit the enclave.
Sources
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Spanish government in turmoil as Ceuta crisis deepens
Euronews
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Spain in disarray over leaked reports about Morocco’s role in Ceuta
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Embattled Spanish PM Sánchez insists no prior warnings before Ceuta crisis
BBC