Spain reinforces Ceuta border as migrant surge leaves at least 9 dead

MADRID -- Spain's government on Thursday deployed armed forces stationed in the North African enclave of Ceuta to support the Civil Guard after thousands of migrants crossed into the territory from neighboring Morocco. According to Spanish media reports, at least nine migrants died while attempting to reach the Spanish enclave by sea.

According to Spanish media reports, the armed forces will reinforce the Civil Guard in carrying out its duties and operate under the coordination of the Armed Forces' Operations Command.

Thousands of migrants entered Ceuta on Thursday, placing severe pressure on local reception facilities and security services.

Ceuta's regional leader Juan Jesus Vivas called on the central government to declare a national emergency and assume unified command of the response.

Spain's Interior Ministry said Spain and Morocco had agreed to strengthen coordination in response to the migration situation and accelerate procedures for the return of people who entered Ceuta illegally.

European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner said on social media platform X that the European Union stood ready to increase support for Spain, including through Frontex, and was also in contact with the Moroccan authorities to help prevent dangerous irregular crossings.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska are scheduled to visit Ceuta on Friday as the government steps up its response to the crisis.

Ceuta, together with Melilla, is one of Spain's two autonomous cities on the North African coast and forms the European Union's only land border with Africa.