Spain Deploys Military to Restore Order at Ceuta-Morocco Border

Spain’s government announced it will deploy military forces to restore order at its border with Morocco in Ceuta. This move comes as thousands of migrants have entered the Spanish territory, prompting local authorities to seek assistance from Madrid.

Following the breach of the border fence by large crowds on Thursday, the Spanish government committed to sending the Armed Forces to support the Civil Guard in maintaining security in Ceuta. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska are scheduled to visit the area on Friday.

“The situation is absolute chaos,” said Rachid Sbihi, head of the association representing Spain’s Civil Guard officers in Ceuta.

Sbihi expressed difficulties in determining the exact number of migrants crossing but noted a total collapse of the border. Overwhelming numbers of mainly Moroccan migrants, including families and young children, were seen traversing Tarajal beach, attempting to access Spanish territory.

The increase in migrant crossings comes after attempts on Wednesday to reach Ceuta by sea, resulting in at least three deaths. Moroccan authorities have not commented publicly, but Spain’s Interior Ministry confirmed cooperation from the Moroccan government, aiming for the swift return of individuals who entered illegally. Spanish and Moroccan police are collaboratively preventing more crossings.

The local Government’s earlier pleas for a national emergency declaration were not addressed, as migration flows are not deemed a national security risk under Spanish legislation. Ceuta officials attributed the surge to a Spanish Supreme Court ruling prohibiting immediate pushbacks for sea-arrived migrants, though local activists doubted this influenced migrant decisions.

Previously, in May 2021, over 8,000 migrants entered Ceuta in just two days amid a diplomatic dispute between Spain and Morocco. Currently, authorities underscore the urgent need for Army deployment to secure the border and manage overcrowded reception centers.

According to Spain’s Interior Ministry, nearly 3,000 migrants have entered Ceuta by land or sea in 2026 so far. Updated figures are expected on August 3.

Ceuta, a Spanish possession since 1580, sits on a historical isthmus. Its population includes Christians and Muslims, as well as Spanish and Moroccan residents and workers living in relative harmony. Nevertheless, the territory remains a focal point for many migrants seeking a better future in Europe.