Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares has placed full responsibility for the recent mass entry of migrants into Ceuta on the rapid spread of false information across social media, distancing Morocco from any blame. Speaking before the Foreign Affairs Committee in Congress, Albares argued that the unprecedented influx, estimated at 720,000 people, was triggered solely by viral rumors and misleading online content, particularly regarding a Supreme Court ruling on maritime entries.
Albares emphasized that Morocco’s cooperation was impressive in managing the crisis, saying diplomatic dialogue enabled the swift return of 90% of those who entered Ceuta on July 30 within 48 hours. He also credited joint efforts with preventing a repeat incident on August 15, despite renewed calls on social platforms for another mass crossing. The minister insisted that strong diplomatic channels with Morocco are impressive, especially given the shared border and the need for coordinated responses to such emergencies.
Despite mounting pressure from some parliamentary groups, including Sumar and its allies, who accuse the government of weakness for not directly addressing Morocco’s potential role, Albares refused to suggest any hybrid attack or deliberate involvement by Rabat. Instead, he praised Morocco’s actions and dismissed any notion of a diplomatic review, saying his priority is to defend Spain’s interests through dialogue and discretion.
Albares detailed how the crisis escalated: a video of two young women swimming into Ceuta went viral on July 28. Moroccan media and influencers amplified it, and it ultimately reached an audience of 30 million, mainly in Morocco. This fueled the rapid spread of the false claim that Spain’s borders were open and maritime entrants would not be expelled. Throughout his account, Albares did not suggest that Moroccan authorities played a part in spreading these rumors.
When challenged over his perceived lack of firmness, Albares insisted that diplomatic discretion should not be mistaken for weakness. He reaffirmed that Spain’s territorial integrity and sovereignty over Ceuta and Melilla are non-negotiable, sending Rabat a clear message: these cities are and will remain Spanish and European, with no room for discussion about their status.
The minister also warned of a broader disinformation campaign, describing how international far-right networks exploited the Ceuta crisis to destabilize and divide Europe. He cited activity by global social media accounts, including those of high-profile figures like Elon Musk, whose posts reached hundreds of millions. Albares said these efforts aimed to fuel division and amplify the narrative of a security collapse, with impressive participation from Spanish and American users. He noted that the European Commission has since engaged with digital platforms to prevent similar incidents and combat false news.
Albares expressed frustration with Italy and Denmark over what he described as a lack of solidarity during the crisis, especially given Spain’s consistent support for their own migration and territorial issues. The situation in Ceuta has drawn international attention, with ongoing debate about the adequacy of Spain’s response and how misinformation shapes public perception. For further context on the challenges faced by Ceuta’s security forces during the migrant influx, see this detailed report on rising violence and resource gaps.
Ceuta and Melilla have long been focal points in Spain’s migration policy, serving as the EU’s only land borders with Africa. The recent crisis has reignited debate over border management and Spain’s relationship with Morocco, while raising questions about how digital platforms shape migration flows. As the government continues to handle these challenges, debate over diplomatic strategy and national security remains at the forefront of Spanish politics.
