Spain says Ceuta migrant crisis under control as over 48,000 return
Spain has regained control of the border in Ceuta after a massive influx of approximately 50,000 migrants, most of whom have voluntarily returned to Morocco. The event has caused diplomatic friction, including Italy's suspension of Schengen arrangements with Spain.
Why it matters
The crisis highlights ongoing tensions regarding migration policy and border security within the European Union.
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Undocumented migrants who entered Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta illegally, begin returning to Morocco after realizing their chances of obtaining legal status in Spain are unlikely, July 31, 2026. /VCG
Spain said Friday that it had brought a massive influx of migrants into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta under control, with the vast majority of those who crossed the border in recent days voluntarily returning to Morocco.
Spain's Interior Ministry said around 50,000 people had crossed into Ceuta by land and sea since Thursday morning, estimating that 48,300 had returned by 6 p.m. local time on Friday. Juan Jesús Vivas, president of Ceuta's regional government, said the number of people involved could have reached 60,000 over the past two days.
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