Spain: Tens of thousands rally over Ceuta crisis

Tens of thousands of individuals gathered in protest across Spain on Wednesday, addressing the ongoing border crisis in Ceuta and criticizing Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's left-wing government for its management of the situation. The demonstration occurred during Ceuta's annual official holiday, which is typically celebrated with festivities; however, this year, the holiday coincided with heightened tensions over Spain's border issues.

Authorities reported approximately 50,000 participants in the Madrid rally. Territorial policy minister Angel Victor Torres claimed the protests were politically motivated, aimed at attacking the Spanish government rather than supporting Ceuta's residents. The government has dismissed allegations of abandoning Ceuta, recently allocating €309 million to aid the city's social services and security infrastructure.

Demonstrations also took place in Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville, where participants waved Spanish flags. The protests, organized by the nonpartisan Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces, saw support from the conservative and far-right opposition, who accused Sanchez's government of adopting an appeasement policy towards Morocco.

Moroccan migrants, including unaccompanied minors, continued to protest on the streets and beaches, expressing frustration over the lack of resolution. Ceuta's top official, Juan Jesus Vivas, urged the central government to strengthen the border with Morocco, emphasizing the need to prevent unauthorized migration. Prime Minister Sanchez affirmed that his administration was utilizing all available resources to restore peace in Ceuta, following a large influx of migrants from Morocco in mid-July, with around 5,000 to 8,000 still present in the city.