ON
← Back to feed
Italy writes to Merz: "No to the return of three migrants, including the Somali girl who lives with her family in Germany"
Italy🏛️ PoliticsCenter9 days ago

Italy writes to Merz: "No to the return of three migrants, including the Somali girl who lives with her family in Germany"

Italy has refused to accept three migrants that Germany wishes to transfer back to Italy under the Dublin rules. The official communication was sent to German authorities recently, as reported by Italian media outlets. The first transfer was initially scheduled for August 19th. The individuals involved arrived in Germany after being rescued in Italy, including Abdirisaq Warsame, a Somali citizen who lives regularly with his family in Germany. Berlin had already signed the transfer decrees and initiated procedures to return the other two migrants. Italy’s decision follows days of diplomatic discussions, with Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi speaking with his German counterpart, Alexander Dobrindt. Italy cites two main reasons for rejecting the transfers: the cases date back before June 12, 2026, when the new European migration and asylum pact came into effect, and a request for compensation based on the number of migrants rescued by German NGOs in Italian waters. This issue could escalate tensions between Italy and Germany over migration management and the application of Dublin rules.

Morocco blocks hundreds of migrants attempting to reach Ceuta, uses tear gas Hundreds of migrants, predominantly sub-Saharan Africans, were blocked by Moroccan security forces today as they attempted to illegally enter the Spanish exclave of Ceuta, according to reports from Rabat-based security sources cited by EFE. The group had taken refuge in a mountainous area near the town of Fnideq, Castillejos, which was under Spanish protectorate until 1956. The operation took place south-west of the Iberian enclave within Moroccan territory. Thousands of Moroccan police officers are deployed along the border to prevent mass arrivals into Ceuta following appeals shared on social media ahead of August 15. Migrants who were dispersed have remained in the area, according to the sources. Security measures have been intensified after the crisis of July 30 and 31, when approximately 80,000 migrants crossed the border, resulting in 82 deaths on the Spanish side, according to data released by the Legal Medicine Institute of Ceuta, which conducted autopsies on the bodies. Humanitarian organizations estimate at least 141 fatalities on both sides of the border, including Caminando Fronteras. The incident marks another escalation in the ongoing tensions over migration flows through the Strait of Gibraltar. The Moroccan authorities have used tear gas during the operation, as confirmed by local media. This follows months of increased pressure on the border with Spain, particularly around the summer months when large numbers of migrants attempt to cross. Italy refuses to accept three migrants being returned from Germany In a separate development, Italy has formally rejected a request from Germany to repatriate three irregular migrants back to Italian soil. The Italian Ministry of Interior sent an official communication to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, stating its unwillingness to accept the transfer of the individuals. The move comes as Germany prepares to expel the migrants, including a 22-year-old Somali woman named Abdirisaq Warsame, who arrived in Italy via Lampedusa and later moved to Assia, where her family resides legally. Two other foreign nationals are also included in the request. The Italian government argues that the cases date back to before June 12, 2026, the day the new European Pact on Migration and Asylum came into force. According to Rome, these cases fall under the “Dublin Regulation” framework established in December last year with Germany. Additionally, Italy is requesting a compensation mechanism that would take into account the number of migrants rescued and brought to Italy by German-flagged NGOs. This issue could become more pressing soon, as a German NGO vessel is expected to arrive in Ravenna with 65 people onboard. The situation reflects broader political tensions between Italy and Germany, with both countries adopting hardline positions on immigration. The Italian government, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, seeks to maintain public support among right-wing voters, while Germany’s Chancellor Merz promotes stricter immigration policies. The outcome of this dispute will likely influence future cooperation between the two nations on migration management and the implementation of EU rules. Spain warns migrants against risking their lives ahead of August 15 alert Spanish Foreign Minister José Luis Ábalos visited Ceuta today and urged migrants to avoid entering the region or Melilla in an illegal manner, warning that anyone caught doing so will be repatriated. His message comes amid heightened security measures along the border, with thousands of officers stationed to monitor movement and prevent unauthorized crossings. The alert, scheduled for August 15, is part of efforts to curb the flow of irregular migrants through the Strait of Gibraltar. Meanwhile, Morocco faces growing concerns over the effectiveness of its extradition treaty with Spain. The country's Justice Minister, Abdellatif Ouahbi, announced that Rabat is considering suspending the bilateral agreement signed in 2012. The proposed suspension stems from repeated delays and blockages by Spanish authorities, often halting the process just before the handover of wanted persons. A key factor is the death penalty, which, although suspended since 1993, still exists in Moroccan law, whereas Spain abolished it in 1978. The fear that extradited individuals might face capital punishment has led to the blocking of many extradition requests. Tensions surrounding migration management continue to strain relations between Morocco and Spain, especially given the complex issues of repatriating minors and managing the influx of irregular migrants. Despite these challenges, the Moroccan government maintains a high level of vigilance, deploying large numbers of police to ensure compliance with border controls. Meloni and Frederiksen strengthen ties on migration and values Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Danish Premier Mette Frederiksen have deepened their collaboration on migration policy and European values, despite their different ideological backgrounds. Their partnership began early in Meloni’s tenure, as she advocated for greater European responsibility in managing migration flows and structural solutions to reduce pressure on external borders. Frederiksen, already committed to restrictive migration policies, supported Meloni’s stance on strengthening returns and cooperation with third countries. Their relationship gained visibility in April 2023, when Frederiksen visited Rome to meet with Meloni. The two leaders have continued to align on key issues, such as controlling irregular migration and reinforcing European values. They jointly endorsed the "Letter of the 15," a document promoting innovative approaches to manage irregular migration, including joint operations for search and rescue, legal frameworks for returns, and the establishment of return hubs in third countries. This initiative was backed by several EU member states, including Italy, and marked a significant step in their collaborative approach to migration governance.

Go to the primary sources (3)

The official sources this coverage is built on. Read them directly to bypass framing.

10 reports

Il Fatto Quotidiano logoIl Fatto QuotidianoIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 909 days ago
Migrants, Morocco: 'Mass assault foiled in Ceuta' Thousands of police officers secure border

Moroccan security forces intercepted hundreds of mainly Sub-Saharan migrants attempting to enter the Spanish enclave of Ceuta irregularly, according to reports from Moroccan security sources cited by Efe. The group had hidden in a mountainous area near the town of Fnideq-Castillejos, south-west of the Iberian enclave in Morocco. Thousands of Moroccan agents are deployed to prevent further mass arrivals into Ceuta, following appeals on social media ahead of August 15. Dispersed migrants remain in the area, according to the sources. Security measures were intensified after the crisis on July 30 and 31, when approximately 80,000 migrants crossed the border, resulting in 82 deaths on the Spanish side, according to data from the Legal Medicine Institute of Ceuta, which conducted autopsies on the corpses. Humanitarian organizations estimate at least 141 fatalities on both sides of the border.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual report on the interception of migrants by Moroccan authorities and the subsequent increased security measures. It includes references to specific incidents, casualty figures, and humanitarian estimates, but does not take a clear ideological stance. The framing remains

Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports the Moroccan forces' actions in blocking the migrant attempt to enter Ceuta, citing sources from Efe and providing context about the previous crisis. It aligns well with the primary source and other articles.

Why objectivity (90): The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting the facts without overt bias or emotional language. It provides a balanced view of the situation.

ANSA logoANSAIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 909 days ago
Media: 'Morocco blocks hundreds of people heading to Ceuta'

Moroccan security forces blocked hundreds of migrants, primarily from sub-Saharan Africa, who were attempting to irregularly reach the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. The migrants had hidden in mountainous areas near the city of Fnideq-Castillejos, which was under Spanish protection during the colonial period. Thousands of Moroccan agents are deployed to prevent mass arrivals at Ceuta, following calls made on social media ahead of August 15th. Dispersed migrants remained in the area according to reports. Security measures have been intensified after the crisis on July 30 and 31, when approximately 80,000 migrants crossed the border, resulting in 82 deaths on the Spanish side, according to data from the Forensic Medicine Institute of Ceuta. Humanitarian organizations estimate at least 141 deaths on both sides of the border.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about Moroccan security actions against migrant crossings into Ceuta, citing official sources such as the Forensic Medicine Institute of Ceuta and humanitarian organizations like Caminando Fronteras. There is no evident ideological framing or biased language;

Why factuality (95): The article accurately reports the Moroccan forces blocking the attempt by hundreds of migrants to reach Ceuta, citing sources from Efe and providing context about the previous crisis. It aligns well with the primary source and other articles.

Why objectivity (90): The article maintains a neutral tone, presenting the facts without overt bias or emotional language. It provides a balanced view of the situation.

Open logoOpenIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 8010 days ago
In Ceuta, there could soon be a problem: Morocco could stop the extradition agreement with Spain

The article discusses potential tensions between Morocco and Spain regarding the bilateral extradition treaty, which has been in effect since 2012. Moroccan Justice Minister Abdellatif Ouahbi announced that Rabat is considering suspending the agreement due to persistent delays and blockages by Spanish authorities, particularly at the final stage of extraditing suspects. The main issue highlighted is the death penalty: while Morocco has a moratorium since 1993, the legal code still allows it, whereas Spain abolished capital punishment in 1978. This discrepancy causes Spanish authorities to fear that extradited individuals might face execution, thereby blocking the process. The situation is further complicated by ongoing migration tensions around Ceuta, where over 600 migrants out of the estimated 10,000 present have voluntarily returned to their countries in the past 48 hours, prompting heightened security measures.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the Moroccan stance as a legitimate concern over human rights issues, particularly the death penalty, and highlights the Spanish authorities' reluctance as a result of these concerns. While the article presents both perspectives, it emphasizes the Moroccan position and the impact,

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports Morocco’s consideration of suspending its extradition treaty with Spain due to procedural delays and the issue of the death penalty. It also mentions the political sensitivities around unaccompanied minors and the voluntary return of over 600 migrants. These points ali

Why objectivity (80): The article presents the situation from Morocco’s perspective and highlights the political dimensions of the issue in Spain. While it avoids overtly biased language, it frames the situation more from the viewpoint of Morocco and Spain rather than offering a balanced analysis of the Italian governmen

Il Fatto Quotidiano logoIl Fatto QuotidianoIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 7510 days ago
Italy writes to Merz: "No to the return of three migrants, including the Somali girl who lives with her family in Germany"

Italy has refused to accept three migrants that Germany wishes to transfer back to Italy under the Dublin rules. The official communication was sent to German authorities recently, as reported by Italian media outlets. The first transfer was initially scheduled for August 19th. The individuals involved arrived in Germany after being rescued in Italy, including Abdirisaq Warsame, a Somali citizen who lives regularly with his family in Germany. Berlin had already signed the transfer decrees and initiated procedures to return the other two migrants. Italy’s decision follows days of diplomatic discussions, with Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi speaking with his German counterpart, Alexander Dobrindt. Italy cites two main reasons for rejecting the transfers: the cases date back before June 12, 2026, when the new European migration and asylum pact came into effect, and a request for compensation based on the number of migrants rescued by German NGOs in Italian waters. This issue could escalate tensions between Italy and Germany over migration management and the application of Dublin rules.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the situation from both Italian and German perspectives, highlighting the diplomatic efforts and legal arguments from both sides. It does not overtly favor one side over the other, maintaining a balanced tone despite the politically sensitive nature of migration policies.

Why factuality (85): The article provides specific details such as the names of individuals involved, dates, and references to official communications between Italian and German authorities. These details align with the general consensus found in other articles covering the same event. However, some aspects like the exa

Why objectivity (75): The article presents the situation from an Italian perspective, emphasizing the country’s stance and motivations. While it does not overtly favor one side, it uses terms like 'clamore' (commotion) which may imply judgment. The overall tone remains relatively neutral but leans slightly toward highlig

Open logoOpenIndependentConservativeFactual 85Objective 7010 days ago
Migrants, Italy says no to Germany: No re-entry for 22-year-old Somali and two other irregulars

The Italian Ministry of Interior (Viminale) has formally communicated to Germany to block the repatriation of three migrants, including a 22-year-old Somali woman, back to Italy. The decision comes after Germany had already signed transfer decrees for these individuals, with the first return flight planned for August 19. Italy argues that the cases date back before June 12, 2026, the start of the new European Migration Pact, which falls under the 'sanctuary' agreement for Dublin cases negotiated in December. Additionally, Italy demands recognition of a compensation principle for migrants rescued by German-flagged NGOs operating in Italy. This move reflects broader political tensions between Italy and Germany over immigration policies.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the Italian government’s stance as a defensive position against German migration policies, emphasizing the legal arguments and compensation claims. It highlights the political motivations behind both countries’ positions, particularly Italy’s alignment with right-wing policies and

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports on Italy’s refusal to accept three migrants from Germany, citing the new European Migration Pact. The details align with the primary source document’s focus on la Repubblica’s role in reporting such events, though the article doesn’t directly reference la Repubblica. T

Why objectivity (70): The article leans slightly toward the Italian government’s position, using terms like 'disposizione' and 'rimpatrio' without providing counterpoints. While it remains factual, the tone shows some alignment with the government’s stance rather than presenting both sides equally.

Open logoOpenIndependentProgressiveFactual 80Objective 6514 days ago
Why Germany wants Italy to take back secondary migrants: The culture of welcome is over

The article discusses Italy's migration policies under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, focusing on the country's commitment to expelling 16,000 migrants but having only carried out around 6,772 expulsions by 2025. Germany, led by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, is urging Italy to repatriate secondary migrants who passed through German territory after arriving in Italy. The issue involves the 'Dublin Regulation' and disagreements over which date, December 2025 or June 2026, should determine eligibility for repatriation. A case involving a Somali citizen highlights the complexities, as Italy argues there are insufficient conditions for expulsion. The article also notes that the new agreement extends the responsibility of the state of disembarkation for asylum seekers from 12 to 20 months and allows for repudiation within three years.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the Italian government's migration policies as being challenged by external pressures (Germany), highlighting potential inconsistencies in their commitments. It emphasizes the legal and ethical dilemmas surrounding migrant repatriation, suggesting a critical stance toward the EU's

Why factuality (80): This article provides information on the dispute between Italy and Germany over the Dublin system, referencing the number of migrants and the dates involved. It includes quotes from officials and discusses the disagreement over the effective date of the new migration pact. The content is largely con

Why objectivity (65): The article presents the conflict between Italy and Germany but frames it through the lens of criticism against the Italian government’s handling of migration. There is a noticeable bias in the phrasing, suggesting that the Italian government may be at fault for not fulfilling obligations.

la Repubblica logola RepubblicaIndependent🔒CenterFactual 75Objective 6014 days ago
Germany, Meloni's astonishment the government blames German NGOs

The Italian government has accused German NGOs of failing to repatriate migrants who arrived in Germany, prompting a diplomatic exchange between Italy and Germany. The Italian Interior Ministry emphasized that compensation for these NGOs should come before any further migrant arrivals. Discussions have taken place between the Italian Prime Minister’s office and the German Chancellor’s office. Meanwhile, the Italian League (FdI), led by Giorgia Meloni, has expressed frosty relations with German politician Friedrich Merz. The European Union has also urged Italy to address the situation.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the situation factually, citing both the Italian government's stance and the EU's involvement without overtly favoring one side. It includes mentions of political reactions but avoids loaded language or one-sided sourcing.

Why factuality (75): The article focuses on the 'Albania model' and its challenges, providing background on the agreement between Italy and Albania. It references the recent crisis in Ceuta and the broader migration policy. While it touches on relevant facts, it does not directly address the closure of borders with Spai

Why objectivity (60): The tone is more analytical and less neutral, emphasizing the difficulties of the 'Albania model' and linking it to the broader migration policy. This suggests a slightly biased perspective favoring the critique of the current government’s approach.

la Repubblica logola RepubblicaIndependent🔒CenterFactual 70Objective 6512 days ago
Albares on a visit to Ceuta: 'The Italian government has moved because of internal electoral needs'

The Spanish Foreign Minister, Albares, visited Ceuta and addressed migrants ahead of an August 15 alert, urging them not to risk their lives by entering irregularly. He emphasized that anyone arriving illegally in Ceuta or Melilla will be repatriated. The statement comes amid heightened border controls and political tensions over migration policies.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual report on the Spanish Foreign Minister’s remarks without overt ideological framing. While the issue of migration is politically charged, the tone remains neutral, focusing on the minister’s direct message rather than taking a partisan stance. There is no clear leaning,

Why factuality (70): The article discusses Spanish Foreign Minister Albares visiting Ceuta and making statements about the government's response to migration. While factually plausible, it lacks direct sourcing and contextual information about the broader migration crisis. It appears more like commentary than a factual

Why objectivity (65): The article has a slightly subjective tone, presenting the minister's statement as a call to action rather than reporting on the event objectively. It leans toward the political angle, which may influence the reader's perception of the issue.

Il Fatto Quotidiano logoIl Fatto QuotidianoIndependentConservativeFactual 70Objective 6014 days ago
Germany also reacts to Italy's crackdown on migrants: it will return asylum seekers who have crossed the border to Rome

Italy has taken a hardline approach toward migrants by suspending Schengen and reintroducing border controls at ports and airports for individuals arriving from Spain, departing from European solidarity principles. In response, Germany has decided to return asylum seekers who entered Italy and later crossed into Germany, citing the Dublin Agreement which assigns responsibility to the first country of entry. This move follows criticism of Italy’s stance on migration, particularly after four years of refusing to accept migrants who had left their countries, citing 'national emergency.' The German decision comes amid a December 2025 agreement between Italy and Germany to reduce the number of asylum seekers considered under the Dublin system in Germany, though this measure is temporary and will expire with the implementation of a new European asylum reform. Critics, including the Five Star Movement, argue that Italy’s actions toward Spain have provoked Germany’s response, suggesting the government’s policies are driven more by political rhetoric than practical considerations.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames Italy's strict immigration policies as a 'hard line' and attributes Germany's retaliatory measures to Italy's 'egoistic' stance, aligning with right-leaning narratives around national sovereignty and border control. It criticizes the Italian government for prioritizing political '

Why factuality (70): The article contains an interview with a Spanish author who makes strong ideological statements. While it adds perspective, it lacks concrete factual details about the current situation.

Why objectivity (60): The content is more reflective and philosophical, leaning into subjective interpretation rather than objective reporting.

Open logoOpenIndependentCenterFactual 50Objective 5013 days ago
Meloni-Frederiksen, the story of the strange friendship with the Danish Prime Minister: from returns to 'European values', via Greenland

The article discusses the growing cooperation between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, focusing on their shared approach to migration and European values. Despite being from different political backgrounds, Meloni as a conservative and Frederiksen as a socialist, their collaboration has deepened since the early months of Meloni’s government. The partnership became more visible after they jointly signed a letter in May 2024, known as the 'letter of the 15,' which called for innovative solutions to manage irregular migration through increased cooperation with third countries. This initiative was part of broader EU efforts on migration and asylum, aimed at improving border controls, enhancing repatriation processes, and establishing legal frameworks for handling asylum procedures abroad.

Bias read (Center): While the article highlights the alignment between Meloni and Frederiksen on migration issues, it presents both leaders as having distinct ideological positions (conservative vs. socialist). The framing remains balanced by acknowledging their differing backgrounds while emphasizing their common goal

Why factuality (50): This article introduces speculative elements, such as the alleged intelligence report about a potential Islamist cell in Ceuta, which is not confirmed by the primary source. It also makes strong accusations against Meloni and the Italian government, suggesting political manipulation, which goes beyo

Why objectivity (50): The tone is highly critical and accusatory, suggesting that the Italian government is using the crisis for political gain. It presents a one-sided narrative without offering counterpoints or evidence to support these allegations, making it less objective.

How each side covered it

The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.

How each side covered it

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Covered around the world

The same event as reported in other countries.

Covered around the world

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Claims check

Key factual claims, and how many sources assert vs dispute each.

Claims check

Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and every other Supporter feature.

Become a Supporter

Keep the news honest.

ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.

Become a Supporter

Related stories