By the time authorities reacted, an estimated 60,000 people had reached Ceuta in just a few days, the largest migration surge between Morocco and Spain in years. More than 80 migrants died on both sides of the border, including some who drowned and others who were killed in a stampede, authorities said.

Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner said an emergency meeting of EU interior ministers today was aimed at easing tensions with Spain amid a Europe-wide backlash against Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s migration policies.

EU says it is monitoring energy crunch in Hungary, Bulgaria and Romania as extreme heat and low water levels in Danube pose challenges in region

Morocco is blaming a massive surge of migrants​ into Ceuta on various factors, including "malicious exploitation of digital platforms" and the spread of misleading information.

People in Ceuta, Spain, walk toward the country's border with Morocco July 31, 2026, leaving Spain amid mass crossings of migrants on foot and by sea from Morocco into Spanish territory. The Diocese of Cádiz and Ceuta offered emergency resources to civil authorities July 31 as more than 40,

At least 72 migrants are dead as Spain searches for more victims and a deadly border crossing sparks renewed political tensions across Europe.

The pro-immigration leader is facing backlash at home and abroad after roughly 60,000 people crossed from Morocco into the Spanish enclave.