A massive wave of migrants has overwhelmed the Spanish North African enclave of Ceuta, with local authorities estimating that up to 60,000 people crossed from Morocco by land and sea in roughly 24 hours. At least 34 people have died, according to Ceuta’s president Juan Jesús Vivas, who described the situation as a “humanitarian and operational emergency” that the city of approximately 85,000 residents cannot sustain.

Spanish officials have cited figures closer to 49,000 irregular entries. Many migrants swam around the Tarajal breakwater, while others forced their way across the land border. Spain has deployed the army and additional police reinforcements. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called the events an “attack” and a “violation of Spain’s territorial integrity,” pledging rapid returns to Morocco.

European Reactions Intensify

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has demanded extraordinary measures, including the possible suspension of Spain from the Schengen free-movement area until external borders are secured. Finland’s Interior Minister has backed the Italian position.

French President Emmanuel Macron has been in contact with both Madrid and Rabat. France has reinforced checks on its border with Spain and offered support, including potential Frontex deployment.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the images from Ceuta as “unacceptable,” stating that the EU cannot allow uncontrolled entries. She confirmed that the Commissioner for the Mediterranean is in direct contact with the Moroccan government.

Danish Prime Minister Speaks Out

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has also intervened, saying the European Union must consider all options, including the suspension of Spain from the Schengen cooperation.

“These are severe images from Ceuta. We will not accept a repeat of 2015,” Frederiksen stated in a written comment. “It goes without saying that the EU must immediately take all necessary steps and consider every possibility, including a suspension of the Schengen cooperation.”

She added that uncontrolled immigration poses a threat to Europe and Denmark, and confirmed she has already spoken with Meloni. The two leaders are working to gather other European leaders to discuss the crisis.

The influx has turned Ceuta into a major European political flashpoint, raising fresh questions about the future of free movement within the Schengen zone and the EU’s ability to control its external borders.