Spain Accuses Russia and Israel of Spreading Disinformation on Ceuta Migrant Crisis

**Madrid, Spain** – Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has leveled accusations against Russia and Israel, charging them with disseminating disinformation surrounding the recent migrant crisis in Ceuta. The crisis, which saw thousands of migrants cross into Spain's North African enclave from Morocco, has been a focal point of international attention and has now become the subject of political tensions.

Sanchez cited research by the European External Action Service (EEAS), the European Union's foreign service, in his allegations. He told Spain's Cadena Ser radio, "After July 30 and 31, rumors and disinformation spread on social networks linked to Russia and Israel, and to an ultra-right international that always uses migration to attack both Spain and Europe and divide it."

The prime minister emphasized that the two countries had used the crisis to criticize the Spanish government, which has been at odds with both nations over its stance on the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. The influx of migrants, which began on July 30, resulted in at least 70,000 individuals crossing into Ceuta over several days, prompting a Europe-wide migrant alert.

Although the majority of the migrants returned to Morocco within hours, thousands remained in the territory, many living in makeshift shelters on the streets. Sanchez ruled out any responsibility on the part of the Moroccan authorities in the sudden influx, stating, "No intelligence service with which the Spanish government normally cooperates had suggested any involvement in one way or another of the Moroccan authorities."

The Spanish government has promised an additional 168 million euros ($195 million) in aid for Ceuta to address the crisis. Sanchez also appealed for European solidarity to deal with the migration crisis on the continent, emphasizing the need for cooperation rather than distrust.

During the height of the crisis, disinformation was spread online, including by human trafficking groups, claiming that individuals who entered Ceuta by swimming could not be deported to Morocco. The prime minister confirmed that the Spanish government is continuing to investigate the events surrounding the crisis and has called for an appeal for European solidarity to address the ongoing situation.

The situation in Ceuta has been a source of tension and concern for residents, who have held regular demonstrations over security and hygiene problems linked to the migrant influx. The territory, which spans just 18 square kilometers (7 square miles) and has a population of 80,000, has been overwhelmed by the sudden arrival of thousands of migrants.

Spain's left-wing government estimates that between 3,500 and 7,000 migrants remain in Ceuta, including unaccompanied minors. However, right-wing politicians in Ceuta claim the number is at least 10,000, indicating a significant discrepancy in the assessment of the situation.

As the situation in Ceuta continues to unfold, the Spanish government is under pressure to address the crisis effectively while also navigating the complex political landscape. Sanchez's accusations against Russia and Israel add another layer of complexity to the situation, raising questions about the role of disinformation in fueling tensions and further complicating the resolution of the crisis.