US State Department blames Spanish government for irregular migration movements in Ceuta

The US State Department issued a statement targeting the Madrid administration regarding the irregular migration movements in Ceuta, Spain's territory in North Africa. In a message posted on its social media account, the Department alleged that the developments were a direct result of the Spanish government's "deliberate efforts to enable and facilitate mass illegal migration" into Europe.

The statement noted that the US stands with the Spanish people and Europeans in the face of the events in Ceuta. Defining the migration movements in question as a security threat, Washington stated, "We are considering taking action to protect Americans from this threat both at home and abroad, and we are ready to assist other European allies who are evaluating similar options."

The activity in Ceuta came to the fore as hundreds of people attempting to swim from the shores of the Moroccan town of Fnideq to Spanish territory concentrated along the border line. It was reported that more than 800 irregular migrants were intervened with on Thursday, July 30.

SPAIN DEPLOYS TROOPS TO THE REGION

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced that all government resources have been mobilized following the events. The Madrid administration decided to deploy armed forces to the region to ensure security following the increase in irregular crossing attempts towards Ceuta.

The Spanish government announced that it estimates the number of people who have crossed into Ceuta by swimming or walking in the last 24 hours has exceeded 49 thousand. The developments have also brought debates on border security and free movement in Europe back to the agenda.

US President Donald Trump also made evaluations regarding the irregular migration activity in Spain during a cabinet meeting held at Camp David. Drawing parallels between the border debates in the US and the developments in Spain, Trump criticized former President Joe Biden and his administration.

Trump said, "I watched Spain yesterday and saw the disaster happening there. It was like a country being invaded by hundreds of thousands of people." Arguing that Spain is failing in its fight against irregular migration, Trump said that border security would be one of the main agendas of the Republican Party in the Congressional midterm elections to be held in November.

News Source: 12punto