Spain PM blames Russia, Israel for Ceuta migrant crisis’ disinformation

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated that signs suggest Russia and Israel spread disinformation regarding Spain's migration policy, which he believes triggered the recent surge of migrants into Ceuta. This unprecedented influx occurred between July 30 and 31, with over 72,000 migrants crossing from Morocco into the Spanish territory. The event caused alarm across the European Union and resulted in at least 100 deaths. While opposition parties and some human rights groups accused Morocco of complicity, the article notes there is no evidence of Moroccan involvement in spreading the disinformation, nor is there evidence of their involvement in the surge itself.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that there is no evidence to suggest the Moroccan government was responsible for the mass border breach into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta at the end of July. This influx saw approximately 70,000 people enter, resulting in a humanitarian crisis and political tensions, with an estimated 141 deaths during the crossing. Sánchez emphasized that cooperation with Morocco is positive and necessary to resolve the situation, attributing the breach to criminal gangs and disinformation spread via social media. He noted that around 1,500 migrants, including 1,200 minors, remain in Ceuta, and Spain is working to accommodate them.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has accused Russia and Israel of spreading disinformation related to the mass migrant influx into Ceuta in late July. Sanchez cited research by the European External Action Service (EEAS) that found both countries amplified rumors on social networks during the crisis. He suggested these nations used the situation to criticize the Spanish government, potentially due to disagreements over the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. The influx saw at least 70,000 people cross into the Spanish enclave from Morocco over several days. Sanchez also stated that no cooperating intelligence services indicated Moroccan authorities' involvement and pledged additional aid for Ceuta.