World
Archived — This article has been archived. The information may be outdated.
Sanchez says Spain had no warning before Ceuta influx
BBC News··3 Sept
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez told parliament no one foresaw the influx of 72,000 migrants in Ceuta. "It's absurd to think that the government knew and did nothing," he said after opposition-backed protests. About 5,000 migrants remain on Ceuta streets and beaches, including as many as 1,400 children. Sanchez said there was no evidence Morocco directed the crossing.
Prism
What It Means For You
- About 5,000 people remain on Ceuta streets and beaches after most arrivals were returned to Morocco.
- Italy imposed border restrictions on arrivals from Spain after the influx.
- Domestic protests in Madrid and other cities on Wednesday raised pressure on Sanchez's government.
What's Happening
- Sanchez denied prior warnings and rejected claims the government stood idle.
- A Spanish police report cited "total permissiveness" by Moroccan security forces; officials say it does not blame Rabat.
- People's Party leader Alberto Nunez Feijoo accused the government of lying and called for resignation.
Why Ceuta Matters To Europe
- Ceuta and Melilla are the EU's only land borders in North Africa.
- Moroccan Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi has spoken of a historical and geographical right to the cities.
- Sanchez told parliament Ceuta is Spain on the border of Europe, not merely Spain's border.
all-news
