03.08.2026 13:28
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made a notable statement following the influx of irregular migrants from Morocco to Spain's Ceuta. While Meloni announced that extraordinary measures, including the expulsion of Spain from the Schengen Area, are being considered, Spain also decided to deploy troops to the region to ensure border security.
Political tension escalates in Europe after thousands of irregular migrants reached Ceuta, Spain's territory in North Africa, via Morocco. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced that extraordinary measures, including the suspension of Spain from the Schengen Area, which provides visa-free travel, are on the table due to these developments.
MELONI: SUSPENSION OF SCHENGEN ON THE AGENDA
In a statement on her social media account, Meloni said the images from Ceuta were "shocking." Stating that they are conducting meetings with relevant institutions, Meloni said that after these talks, they are ready to consider exceptional measures, including the suspension of Spain's status under the Schengen Agreement. Meloni said, "Italy will not remain a spectator."
SPAIN SENDS THE ARMY TO THE REGION
The Spanish government, on the other hand, announced that the Armed Forces will be deployed to the region to restore security in Ceuta. It was reported that initially, 60 military personnel will be assigned to support police forces.
It was also announced that Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez will visit Ceuta on Friday together with Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska.
"THE BORDER HAS COMPLETELY COLLAPSED"
Rachid Sbihi, a representative of the Civil Guard Union serving in Ceuta, stated that the situation at the border is out of control, saying, "The situation is complete chaos. It is impossible to give exact numbers, but thousands of migrants are crossing the border. The border has completely collapsed."
State television TVE reported that between 2,000 and 3,000 people have crossed into Ceuta so far.
AT LEAST 18 PEOPLE HAVE LOST THEIR LIVES
It was announced that at least 18 people lost their lives during the mass crossing. In the images, hundreds of migrants were seen reaching Ceuta by crossing the sea with inflatable tires and various flotation equipment, while some entered the city by climbing over the fences at the border gate.
"WORSE THAN THE 2021 CRISIS"
Juan Jesus Vivas, President of the Ceuta Regional Government, requested the declaration of a state of emergency on national security grounds. Vivas, who requested more police and soldiers, said that ensuring border security has become imperative.
Spanish police sources, on the other hand, stated that the events were even more severe than the crisis in 2021 when approximately 10,000 migrants entered Ceuta within a few days, assessing, "We are on the brink of operational collapse."
INTENSITY ALSO OCCURRED ON THE MOROCCAN SIDE
While many people trying to cross the border filled the roads in the Moroccan city of Fnideq, Moroccan security forces tried to prevent crossings with water cannons and additional security measures. Some migrants stated that they could not cross because the border gates were closed.