Migration surge in Ceuta intensifies Spain-Morocco dispute and sparks political protests

Ceuta, the Spanish autonomous city on the African side of the Strait of Gibraltar, experienced a rapid influx of migrants from Morocco that quickly exceeded its accommodation capacity, leaving thousands in crowded shelters or informal encampments. The situation quickly became a national issue, with large protests erupting in Madrid, Seville, Valencia, Malaga and other cities, where participants chanted slogans defending Spanish sovereignty over Ceuta.

The far-right Vox party called on its supporters to oppose what it termed an invasion, while the ultra-conservative platform Sociedad Civil Española staged a "march for dignity" demanding the militarisation of Ceuta and the expulsion of all migrants. On the international stage, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez addressed the United Nations, urging restraint and warning against treating migrants as enemies. After his housing measures were rejected, Sanchez announced that early parliamentary elections would be held in late November, linking the Ceuta crisis to the upcoming campaign.