Thousands Protest Socialist Government Over Ceuta Migrant Crisis

Tens of thousands of people demonstrated across Spain, demanding the resignation of the socialist government over a crisis in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, which saw a massive influx of Moroccan migrants. Protesters blame Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's socialist government for the situation. In Madrid alone, official figures stated over 50,000 participated in the march. Alberto Núñez Feijóo, leader of the opposition People's Party, stated, "The Spanish city has been invaded, occupied, and all this, unfortunately, with the consent of the Spanish government." The Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces organized the protests, which took place in over 200 cities, with major demonstrations in Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville, in addition to Madrid.

Clashes with police occurred in the evening, with authorities using rubber bullets and tear gas. Demonstrators called for Sánchez's government to step down. Government officials dismissed the protests as a political maneuver by the opposition, not a show of solidarity, and highlighted significant funding allocated for migrant aid. However, protesters insisted on the deportation of undocumented migrants rather than providing assistance.

Earlier, Sánchez had stated Morocco's government was not involved in the crisis, while also accusing Israel, Russia, and right-wing groups. This statement was followed by a Spanish police report indicating Moroccan authorities were aware of the impending influx but failed to prevent it.

In late July, approximately 70,000 people entered Ceuta from Morocco. While tens of thousands were expelled, at least 5,000 remain in Spanish territory, including 1,200 minors. The crisis has been linked to a rise in crime.