Ceuta grapples with aftermath of border surge after most migrants leave the Spanish territory

Ceuta, a Spanish territory in North Africa, experienced a significant surge in migrant arrivals over the weekend, leading to widespread concern and debate about immigration policies. The majority of the 60,000 migrants who entered the city had left by Sunday, and others attempted to blend in with the local population. Spanish civil guard ships continued their search for migrant bodies in the nearby waters following the crisis.

While Ceuta's shops reopened, the city's residents and tourists returned to their normal activities. However, the aftermath of the border surge left locals divided on the causes and responsibility. Mohamad Abdelkader Driss, a local waiter, blamed the authorities for opening the border, while others emphasized that the migrants themselves were not at fault, but rather the lack of response from the authorities.

The surge in migrants reignited a broader debate about immigration in Europe and beyond, with far-right politicians and influencers descending on the city, demanding the expulsion of migrants. Counterprotests were organized by local residents, including Muslims, highlighting the city's diverse cultural composition. Policymakers, such as Pope Leo XIV, expressed concern over the situation and called for peaceful solutions.