Spain will deploy its military to help restore order at its border with Morocco in Ceuta after thousands of migrants entered the Spanish enclave, leaving at least nine people dead, Associated Press reported.
The move comes after authorities in Ceuta sought additional support from the central government to deal with a worsening border crisis, as large crowds breached the frontier on Thursday.
Spain’s government said the Armed Forces would assist the Civil Guard in maintaining security in the city. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska are also scheduled to visit Ceuta on Friday.
Officials described the situation as chaotic, with thousands of migrants crossing the border and security forces struggling to contain the influx. Video footage showed large groups, mostly young Moroccan men along with families, entering Ceuta through the Tarajal beach area.
Ceuta’s government said at least nine people died during the incident, though it did not specify the circumstances. Bodies were reportedly seen in the water, while dozens have died attempting the crossing this year.
The surge follows a sharp increase in migrants trying to reach Ceuta by swimming from Morocco. Although Moroccan authorities have not publicly commented, Spain said Rabat is cooperating to prevent further crossings and facilitate the return of those who entered illegally.
The crisis has reignited debate over migration policy in Europe. Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni warned she could suspend Italy’s participation in the Schengen agreement with Spain over border security concerns.
Ceuta’s regional leader, Juan Jesus Vivas, has urged Madrid to declare a national emergency, deploy more police and send the army to secure the frontier, saying migrant reception centres are overwhelmed after thousands entered the enclave in recent days.
Spain’s Interior Ministry, however, said migration does not meet the legal criteria for a national emergency, while assuring that government agencies are coordinating a swift response.
Ceuta, a Spanish territory on the northern coast of Africa, has long served as a major entry point for migrants seeking to reach Europe. The latest influx recalls the May 2021 crisis, when more than 8,000 migrants crossed into the enclave within two days amid diplomatic tensions between Spain and Morocco.
