Spanish PM Accuses Israel, Russia of Spreading Disinformation on Migration Crisis

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has leveled serious accusations against Israel and Russia, alleging they disseminated and amplified disinformation regarding the massive migration crisis that engulfed the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in North Africa. Sánchez stated in an interview with Cadena SER that "fake news spread on social networks connected to both Russia and Israel, as well as the international far-right, which always uses migration, not only to attack Spain but also Europe." He noted that while organized efforts amplified fake news, the source might not necessarily be state actors.

Sánchez specifically referenced false claims circulating on social media that distorted a Supreme Court ruling, suggesting that any migrant reaching Ceuta by swimming could not be deported. He clarified that this information was incorrect but was widely spread. The Prime Minister linked these disinformation campaigns to Spain's current tensions with Moscow over Ukraine and with Jerusalem concerning the war in Gaza, suggesting the crises were exploited to criticize his government.

The accusations come in the wake of a severe migration crisis in late July 2026, when tens of thousands of migrants from Morocco crossed into Ceuta. Spanish authorities estimated that over 10,000 people entered the enclave within a single day, overwhelming local security and reception facilities. This influx, combined with approximately 1,500 individuals who arrived by swimming from Morocco, led to full capacity at reception centers and facilities for minors. The local government of Ceuta requested the central government in Madrid declare a national state of emergency and deploy military forces, with the enclave's leader describing the situation as a "complete humanitarian and social emergency."

Sánchez's accusations against Israel occur amid particularly strained relations between Madrid and Jerusalem. Sánchez has become a vocal critic of Israel, notably by unilaterally recognizing a Palestinian state, imposing an arms embargo, and labeling the war in Gaza as "genocide." His government also prevented the United States from using Spanish military bases for operations against Iran. Domestically, Sánchez faces a significant political crisis, with his wife, Begoña Gómez, under investigation for alleged corruption and abuse of influence.