Spanish Prime Minister Accuses Russia and Israel of Disinformation During Ceuta Migrant Crisis

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has leveled serious accusations against Russia and Israel, asserting that both countries played a role in the spread of disinformation during the recent migrant crisis in Ceuta. The crisis, which unfolded in late July, saw thousands of migrants attempting to cross into the Spanish North African exclave from Morocco, with the vast majority returning to Morocco within hours. However, Sanchez claims that disinformation campaigns by Russia and Israel, along with an ultra-right international group, exacerbated the situation.

Sanchez cited research from the European External Action Service (EEAS), the European Union’s foreign service, as evidence. The prime minister emphasized that the disinformation was not only spread on social networks but also involved human trafficking groups. He specifically mentioned a false claim that those who entered Ceuta by swimming could not be deported back to Morocco, a narrative that contributed to the mass influx of migrants.

The crisis, which triggered a Europe-wide migrant alert, saw at least 70,000 people crossing into Ceuta from Morocco over several days. While the majority of the migrants returned, thousands remained in the territory, many living in rough conditions. Sanchez ruled out any responsibility on the part of the Moroccan authorities for the sudden influx of migrants, stating that “no intelligence service with which the Spanish government normally cooperates” had suggested any involvement by Morocco.

Despite the accusations against Russia and Israel, Sanchez did not attribute any responsibility to the Moroccan government. Instead, he emphasized the need for cooperation to resolve the crisis. In response to the situation, the Spanish government has promised an additional 168 million euros ($195m) in aid for Ceuta. This funding is intended to help the territory cope with the immediate challenges posed by the migrant influx, including security and hygiene concerns raised by residents.

Ceuta, which spans just 18 square kilometers (7 square miles) and has a population of 80,000, has seen regular demonstrations from residents who cite security and hygiene problems related to the migrant influx. Spain’s left-wing government estimates that between 3,500 and 7,000 migrants remain in the territory, while Ceuta’s right-wing politicians believe the number is closer to 10,000.

Sanchez’s comments come as Spain seeks European solidarity to address the migration crisis on the continent. He called for cooperation rather than distrust, noting that the crisis could only be resolved through mutual effort. The Spanish government has requested emergency funding from the European Union to deal with the influx of migrants, reflecting the broader challenge that Europe faces in managing its borders and addressing the humanitarian aspects of migration.

In a broader context, Sanchez’s accusations against Russia and Israel reflect the geopolitical tensions that often accompany migration crises. Both countries have been at odds with Spain over their positions on the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, which may have influenced their actions during the Ceuta crisis. Sanchez suggested that the two countries used the crisis as an opportunity to criticize the Spanish government’s foreign policy.

The crisis in Ceuta has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the European Union’s migration policies and the need for a coordinated approach to dealing with large-scale migration events. As Spain and the EU grapple with these challenges, the Ceuta crisis serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and sensitivities involved in managing the movement of people across borders.