MADRID — Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has defended his administration’s response to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Ceuta, following attempts by an estimated 80,000 migrants to cross into the enclave late last month.
In an hour-long interview with state television, Sánchez characterized the influx as part of a modern “hybrid attack.” He emphasized the strategic vulnerability of Spain’s two autonomous territories in North Africa—Ceuta and Melilla—noting that their direct borders with the African continent create a “very, very important uniqueness” regarding national defense and border security.
Addressing mounting scrutiny over the government’s preparedness, Sánchez acknowledged that Spain urgently requires “larger reception infrastructures for migrants arriving.” While he stood by the intelligence services’ overall performance in forecasting border movements, he conceded that anticipating the scale of such arrivals remains one of several key areas needing structural improvement.
Sánchez also confirmed that King Felipe VI will conduct an official visit to Ceuta, though a specific date has not yet been finalized.
On the ground, conditions remain dire. For over a month, hundreds of migrants have resided in makeshift beach encampments, relying on the Red Cross for a single daily meal. The ill-equipped community faces severe strain as local infrastructure struggles to accommodate the influx.
The prolonged emergency has also fueled rising domestic political pressure. Protesters have gathered in recent weeks demanding the removal of migrants from the city, citing what they describe as government negligence in securing the border.
