Ceuta, for Sánchez the invasion has a design: Russian and Israeli networks behind fake news about migrants

The Spanish prime minister, Pedro Sánchez, has accused Russian and Israeli networks of spreading false information about migration flows into the North African enclave of Ceuta, claiming the misinformation was part of a coordinated effort to destabilize Spain and provoke mass arrivals. In response, Russia has denied any involvement in the crisis, stating it plays no role in the situation. The remarks came during an extensive interview with the Spanish radio station Cadena Ser, which touched on a range of political issues, including the government’s stance on Morocco, upcoming elections, and the future of King Felipe VI. Tensions in Ceuta have been rising sharply in recent weeks, with reports of violent clashes between migrants and local authorities. Police have reportedly fired warning shots into the air during confrontations, highlighting the volatile atmosphere in the territory. According to Sánchez, the influx of migrants, many arriving by swimming across the Strait of Gibraltar, has been fueled by deliberate disinformation campaigns. He pointed to a specific falsehood circulating online: the claim that once migrants reach Ceuta, they would be unable to be repelled at the border. This, he argued, is untrue and has led to increased numbers attempting to cross illegally. Sánchez linked these disinformation efforts to a broader strategy involving far-right groups and international networks. He described them as part of an “international ultra-right” movement that seeks to exploit immigration issues for political gain. These groups, according to the prime minister, have manipulated a recent ruling by Spain’s Supreme Court, which addressed the legal status of migrants in Ceuta. The ruling was allegedly distorted and disseminated through criminal organizations and foreign media outlets, furthering confusion and encouraging unauthorized crossings. The accusation against Russian and Israeli entities marks a sharp escalation in the rhetoric surrounding the migrant crisis. While Sánchez did not provide direct evidence linking these countries to the spread of false information, he emphasized that such actions were part of a larger geopolitical agenda. The claims come amid heightened scrutiny of foreign influence in European politics, particularly regarding disinformation and its impact on public policy. Spain’s government has long faced criticism over its handling of migration, especially in Ceuta and Melilla, two territories under Spanish sovereignty but located near Moroccan borders. The issue has become increasingly contentious as both Spain and Morocco have taken steps to strengthen their control over the region. Recent measures include stricter border controls and enhanced surveillance, which have sparked debates about human rights and the treatment of asylum seekers. In response to Sánchez’s allegations, the Russian embassy in Madrid issued a statement denying any involvement in the crisis. It reiterated that Moscow has no role in the current situation and called for calm and cooperation between nations. Israel, while not directly commenting on the accusations, has previously expressed concerns over the spread of disinformation related to migration and security matters. As the situation continues to unfold, officials in both Spain and Morocco are likely to remain vigilant. The government in Madrid is expected to take further action to address the root causes of the migration surge, including improving conditions in origin countries and enhancing border management. Meanwhile, international observers will monitor whether the claims of foreign interference gain traction or remain isolated accusations. For now, the focus remains on the immediate challenges facing Ceuta and the broader implications for regional stability.