Ceuta, Spain, experienced a dramatic influx of migrants this past week, transforming the city of 84,000 inhabitants. Over 60,000 migrants attempted to enter this Spanish exclave in North Africa, creating a tense atmosphere. By Sunday, many had returned to Morocco, yet some remained in the surrounding hills. Spanish civil guard ships continued searching for bodies in the waters adjacent to the urban beach, where the migrants had massed.
Ceuta prides itself on its multicultural makeup, hosting Christians, Muslims, Jews, and Hindus living in harmony. However, the sudden border surge has challenged this tradition. Local residents expressed diverse opinions regarding the causes of the attempted border breach.
“It’s not the young men’s fault,” Mohamad Abdelkader Driss, a local waiter, said. “Authorities are responsible.”
The surge reignited Europe’s debate on immigration. At least 72 migrants died, with several drowning and others perishing in stampedes. Some migrants claimed the border appeared open, with authorities largely inactive.
Far-right, anti-immigration sentiments fueled tensions. Spanish politicians and influencers visited Ceuta, prompting counterprotests. Alvise Pérez, a far-right politician, faced angry crowds and required police protection.
Among the counterprotesters was Noor Ahmed, a resident opposed to these demonstrations. “They just want to take advantage of the humanitarian crisis Ceuta is currently experiencing,”
she stated.
Santiago Abascal, leader of the Vox party, criticized the Spanish government for the migrant influx, labeling it an ‘invasion.’ He accused the government of failing to protect borders effectively.
Local resident Eva Barrientos voiced concerns about Ceuta’s foreign-born residents, questioning their loyalty to Spain.
“In Ceuta, we have always lived together… But the only thing we are realizing now is that there is an enemy within,”
Pope Leo XIV expressed concern over Ceuta’s situation, seeking peace and stability in his address. Migration remains a significant concern for the Pope, as evidenced during his visit to Spain’s Canary Islands.