What is the current situation in Ceuta after the migrant influx?

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Situation in Ceuta Following Migrant Influx

The situation in Spain's Ceuta enclave has largely returned to normal following a significant influx of migrants, with Spanish police and troops patrolling the streets. Most of the approximately 60,000 individuals who entered Ceuta by swimming around the border post from Morocco have voluntarily returned to their country within 48 hours. However, small groups of migrants, including minors, were still present in the area, notably in a disused industrial park.
Fatalities and Returns

Official figures indicate that at least 72 people died during the mass crossing into Ceuta. The majority of the estimated 60,000 people who surged into the north African territory have since returned to Morocco. The process of return was largely voluntary, with most migrants completing their journey back within two days of their arrival.
Security Presence and Remaining Migrants

Spanish police and military forces were visible on the streets of Ceuta to maintain order as the enclave settled back into routine. While the bulk of the migrants had departed, some individuals, including unaccompanied minors, were observed in a derelict industrial zone. Soldiers were seen detaining small groups of tired migrants outside a housing project, with troops and an armoured vehicle providing a guard.
Causes and Diplomatic Implications

Spanish authorities have attributed the mass influx, in part, to rumours spread by criminal gangs suggesting a recent Spanish Supreme Court ruling would ease immigration passage. Some analysts have posited that Morocco may have facilitated the crossings to exert diplomatic pressure on Spain, particularly in light of Spain's improved relations with Algeria, a regional rival of Morocco. A similar event occurred in 2021 when around 10,000 migrants entered Ceuta amid eased border controls by Morocco.
European Union Response

The European Union is set to convene a video call to discuss the situation after 22 member states called for an urgent meeting to coordinate a response and prevent future uncontrolled crossings. In a related measure, Italy temporarily suspended its participation in the Schengen agreement with Spain for one month, impacting visa-free border movement. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez reportedly criticised the reactions of some EU countries as "selfish."

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What is the current situation in Ceuta after the migrant influx?

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