Approximately 60,000 migrants crossed from Morocco into Spain’s tiny Ceuta territory in the past 24 hours. Ceuta’s president cited the figure on Friday. It's equivalent to 70% of the population of the city in North Africa.
Spain deployed its armed forces and additional police to restore order in Ceuta, which sits on the Strait of Gibraltar at the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea and has been a Spanish possession since 1580. On the Moroccan side of the border, security forces clashed with migrants. The chaos also had ripple effects abroad, with Italy and France pledging to tighten their controls on people arriving from Spain.
U.S. Department of State issued a special security alert.
Security Alert: The arrival of thousands of migrants from Morocco to Ceuta and hundreds to Melilla in the past 24 hours may lead to unpredictable and dangerous situations. Spain has deployed the Spanish military to contain the developing situation, together with Spanish National Police and Guardia Civil.
Ferries between Ceuta and mainland Spain are currently still operating. For updated ferry information and schedules see the Port of Ceuta website.
Actions to Take:
- Do not travel to the affected areas at this time.
- Avoid any demonstrations which may become violent.
- Follow instructions of local authorities if you are in Ceuta and Melilla.
- Monitor updates from local media and Spanish government.
- Notify friends and family of your safety.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Madrid, Spain+34-915-872-200Contact Madrid
U.S. Consulate General Barcelona, Spain+34-932-802-227Contact Barcelona
State Department – Consular Affairs+1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444