Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated that Russian and Israeli sources played a role in spreading misinformation about Spain’s migration policy. This misinformation allegedly led to a significant surge of migrants into Ceuta, although no involvement from Morocco has been confirmed.
More than 72,000 migrants attempted to cross from Morocco into Ceuta between July 30 and 31. This marked an unprecedented event at one of the European Union’s only two land borders with Africa. The local authorities in Ceuta reported that at least 100 individuals died during the attempt.
Opposition parties in Spain and some human rights groups have accused Morocco of intentionally allowing the mass crossing. However, Morocco has denied these claims. Prime Minister Sanchez, speaking to radio station SER, rejected the notion that Moroccan authorities were involved.
According to Spanish authorities, misleading information circulated on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. This disinformation led migrants to believe that reaching Ceuta by sea would allow them to stay in Spain, prompting thousands to make the dangerous journey.
Sanchez noted that research by the EU’s diplomatic service, EEAS, linked Russian and Israeli entities to the disinformation spread. These networks reportedly worked with far-right groups. Sanchez indicated that these countries aimed to criticize Spain over its stance on conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, though he did not provide detailed evidence.
“When people talk and speculate about the participation of Moroccan authorities, I deny this outright,” Sanchez said.
Representatives from Israel’s Foreign Affairs Ministry, the Russian Embassy in Spain, and the EEAS did not immediately respond to these allegations when contacted by Reuters.
Tensions in Ceuta
Currently, about 5,000 migrants remain in Ceuta, many seeking asylum. Their presence has sparked near-daily protests from locals regarding the Spanish government’s management of the situation. Police reports noted sporadic attacks against a makeshift migrant camp located at El Trampolin beach.
Recently, three Moroccan citizens were arrested for attacking an army patrol with bottles containing corrosive liquids. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported in this incident.
To address the economic impact, Sanchez announced the allocation of an additional €168 million ($195 million) in emergency funds to support Ceuta’s economy. This sum represents about 8% of the enclave’s GDP and is in addition to €180 million previously committed for medium-term recovery efforts.