Amid media reports indicating that tens of thousands of migrants have arrived in the Spanish exclave of Ceuta in a short period, CDU leader Friedrich Merz has urged the Spanish government to take action. Merz stated on Friday that protecting the external borders of the European Union is crucial for combating illegal migration, adding that he expects all EU member states to fulfill this obligation and confirmed that he is in contact with the Spanish authorities.
The Chancellor insists that Spain must resolve the situation in Ceuta “as quickly as possible.” He welcomed the Spanish intention not to allow these illegal migrants to reach the European mainland, though Merz simultaneously called upon Morocco to immediately accept the return of the illegal migrants.
In response to the crisis, the Spanish government is deploying military assets to Ceuta, including soldiers, divers, and a naval vessel, according to the Ministry of the Interior on Thursday. Furthermore, the European Commission has offered operational support through Frontex.
However, critics attribute the difficulties developing in Ceuta to a ruling by Spain’s Supreme Court. This Court has declared sea-based “pushbacks” unlawful and mandates adherence to the rule of law. The ruling requires that individuals reaching Spanish territory by sea or while floating undergo individual case reviews and be granted the right to legal assistance.
