Italy suspends Schengen with Spain after Ceuta crisis

The fallout from the Ceuta crisis has intensified after Italy suspended the application of the Schengen Agreement with Spain, while France tightened border controls and Washington accused Madrid of facilitating "irregular" migration, as the return of migrants to Morocco continued.

31 July, 2026 21:45

NEWS DESK

Spain's enclave of Ceuta on Morocco's northern coast witnessed a massive wave of crossings over the past two days, with around 50,000 people entering from Morocco within 24 hours, according to Spanish authorities. The head of Ceuta's local government said the number may have reached 60,000.

The crossing attempts resulted in fatalities, while Morocco and Spain reinforced security deployments along the border. Madrid also announced that around 40,000 people had been returned to Morocco.

Italy announced the suspension of free movement with Spain under the Schengen Area, reflecting growing European divisions over the mass influx into Ceuta.

France also tightened inspections along its border with Spain, while Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani accused Spain's amnesty policy of encouraging human trafficking, prompting Madrid to summon the Italian ambassador in protest.

In Washington, the U.S. State Department accused the Spanish government of making "deliberate efforts" to allow and facilitate mass "irregular" migration into Europe. Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham described the migrant influx as "deeply concerning" and said London remained in contact with Madrid to offer support.

a.k

ANHA