Spain's Foreign Minister Confirms Return of Migrants from Ceuta to Morocco

In a recent statement, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares confirmed that all undocumented migrants who entered Ceuta will be returned to Morocco. Following a significant influx of over 70,000 migrants in late July, the situation has led to a humanitarian emergency in the enclave. While many have returned voluntarily, around 10,000 remain, prompting calls for increased security and support from EU agencies. Albares emphasized that misinformation had misled some migrants into believing they could access mainland Spain. The Spanish government is taking diplomatic steps to manage the situation effectively.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 12, 2026, 12:39 IST

Return of Undocumented Migrants from Ceuta

Photo: @ians_india/X

Madrid, August 12: Jose Manuel Albares, the Spanish Foreign Minister, has announced that all undocumented migrants who entered Spain's North African territory of Ceuta in late July will be sent back to Morocco.

During his visit to Ceuta on Tuesday, Albares highlighted that over 70,000 individuals crossed the border illegally from Morocco at the end of July, as per estimates from the Spanish government.

Ceuta's President, Juan Jesus Vivas, reported that approximately 100 individuals lost their lives during this significant influx of migrants at an extraordinary session of the European Parliament's Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs last Thursday.

While many of those who entered Ceuta have returned to Morocco voluntarily, around 10,000 are still in the enclave, according to Vivas.

Albares pointed out that some migrants were misled by false information online, believing that entering Ceuta would grant them access to mainland Spain or other parts of Europe, as reported by a news agency.

He stated, "No one has left the city for the mainland (Spain)." He emphasized that diplomatic efforts with Morocco are focused on ensuring the return of all those who entered irregularly.

In response to online rumors of another mass crossing planned for August 15, Spanish authorities have suspended all leave for military personnel and Civil Guards stationed in Ceuta.

Previously, Vivas mentioned that around 100 individuals died during the mass border crossing into Ceuta, with nearly 80,000 entering the enclave, of which about 75,000 have since returned voluntarily.

Currently, between 3,000 and 5,000 migrants remain in Ceuta, leading to overwhelmed reception centers and a critical humanitarian crisis. Vivas has called for enhanced security measures, additional reception resources, and increased support from EU agencies.