31.08.2026 15:41
Italy extended the suspension of free movement with Spain for an additional 15 days, as more than 49,000 irregular migrants crossed into Ceuta last month. Interior Minister Piantedosi stated that the decision is based on border security analyses and expressed appreciation for Spain's efforts.
Italy suspended the free movement period with Spain for an additional 15 days last month because more than 49,000 irregular migrants crossed into Sebta (Ceuta), Spain's territory in North Africa.
Italy's Interior Minister, Matteo Piantedosi, made statements to journalists at a program he attended in the city of Naples.
SCHENGEN SUSPENSION PERIOD EXTENDED
Minister Piantedosi stated that extending the suspension period of the Schengen Agreement, which ensures free movement between Spain and Italy as European Union (EU) members, due to the irregular migration developments in the city of Sebta, was "necessary."
Noting that this decision was based on the assessments of the unit responsible for border security analysis, Piantedosi said, "We limited the extension to 15 days because, on one hand, the analysis conducted by experts shows that the reasons for this measure continue, and on the other hand, the effort shown by the Spanish government, along with the EU, to overcome this situation is certainly commendable."
Piantedosi noted that he hopes this extension decision will be the last and that they are open to all kinds of cooperation with both Spain and the EU.
WHAT HAPPENED?
More than 800 irregular migrants attempted to swim to Sebta (Ceuta), Spain's territory in North Africa, from the shores of the Fnideq town in Morocco on July 30-31, and intervention was carried out against the migrants.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez reported that the government mobilized all available resources regarding the incident.
The Spanish government decided to deploy armed forces to the region to ensure security due to the increase in irregular migration attempts towards Sebta.
The Madrid administration later announced that it is estimated that more than 49,000 people crossed into the city of Sebta by swimming or walking during the said influx, and stated that "almost all" of the irregular migrants returned to Morocco.
Due to the irregular migrant arrivals towards Sebta, Italy suspended free movement with Spain, with which it has no land border, as of August 1 and started implementing border controls for those traveling by sea and air.
Italy's decision drew a reaction from Spain. The Madrid administration retaliated on August 7, announcing that passengers coming from Italy to Spain by sea and air would be subject to border controls until September 7.