Junts intensifies battle with Aliança over the migrant crisis in Ceuta

Rabat has ordered Spanish journalists from EFE and TVE to leave the town of Fnideq, known as Castillejos, following reports of heightened tensions along the border with Ceuta. The decision came late Saturday, according to a representative from Morocco’s Ministry of Interior, who instructed the reporters stationed in the area to vacate the city. The journalists were covering the situation related to the ongoing migration crisis, which saw more than 80,000 individuals enter Ceuta illegally during the nights of July 30 and 31. The Moroccan authorities cited the need to maintain order and security, though they did not provide specific reasons for expelling the foreign correspondents. The journalists had been based in Fnideq, located approximately three kilometers from the border with Ceuta, where they documented the deployment of riot police using tear gas and batons to disperse hundreds of migrants, primarily from Sub-Saharan Africa, attempting to cross into Spain. The Moroccan government has not offered further explanation regarding the expulsion, aside from stating that the official was merely following instructions. The journalists were warned that their professional credentials and equipment could be revoked if they failed to comply with the directive. Spanish officials have expressed concern over the incident, emphasizing the importance of press freedom globally. The Spanish government has stated it is actively seeking a resolution for the affected journalists. Meanwhile, the Moroccan public broadcaster 2M has raised concerns about restrictions imposed by Spanish authorities on its team's access to Ceuta earlier this month. This followed the large-scale crossing that resulted in over 70,000 people entering the city, leading to at least 141 deaths, according to humanitarian organizations. The presence of the journalists in Fnideq was part of broader efforts to cover the unfolding crisis after social media calls for another mass crossing were detected. Hundreds of migrants attempted to reach the border, clashing with Moroccan security forces in mountainous areas near Fnideq. Security sources told EFE that at least 294 migrants, 248 from Sub-Saharan Africa and 46 from Morocco, were intercepted during operations aimed at preventing the mass entry. These figures highlight the scale of the challenge faced by both sides in managing the influx. In response to the crisis, the Spanish government has significantly increased its presence in Ceuta. For the first time in Spain’s democratic history, Foreign Affairs Minister José Manuel Albares visited the autonomous city on Tuesday, eleven days after the largest recorded border crisis with Morocco. His visit underscores the gravity of the situation and the government’s commitment to reinforcing its position on the southernmost frontier of Europe. Albares emphasized the importance of diplomatic cooperation with Morocco, noting that daily communication with his counterpart has facilitated the swift return of thousands of individuals. He reiterated that all those who entered irregularly will be repatriated, stressing that no conditions are being demanded in exchange. Albares also addressed the role of misinformation and the potential for future crises, citing the spread of false promises through social media platforms. He warned against risking lives and futures by attempting to cross the border, asserting that such actions would lead to failure. The government has identified August 15 as a critical date, marked by widespread online calls for another mass crossing. Despite these warnings, Albares expressed confidence in the ability of Moroccan authorities to prevent similar incidents, having dismantled the element of surprise that contributed to the initial crisis. Meanwhile, judicial authorities in Ceuta are handling three cases involving alleged sexual assaults committed by undocumented immigrants who entered the city during the July 30–31 influx. Two of the accused have been placed under arrest, while one case led to the detainee’s deportation. These legal proceedings reflect the complex challenges posed by the surge in illegal entries, including the strain on local resources and the safety of residents. The situation continues to place pressure on both governments to manage the crisis effectively while maintaining stability and respect for international law.