Spanish Prime Minister Accuses Russia and Israel of Spreading Disinformation During Ceuta Migrant Crisis

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has levelled accusations against Russia and Israel, claiming that both nations were responsible for spreading and amplifying disinformation during 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 European attention and debate.

Sanchez cited research conducted by the European External Action Service (EEAS), the European Union’s foreign service, which revealed that disinformation campaigns linked to Russia and Israel were prevalent during the height of the crisis. The prime minister emphasized that these false narratives were spread on social networks and were part of a broader effort to criticize the Spanish government.

According to Sanchez, the disinformation campaigns were "evident" and were used by the two nations to criticize Spain’s stance on the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. The crisis, which began on July 30 and 31, saw at least 70,000 people cross into Ceuta, a territory of just 18 square kilometers and a population of 80,000.

Although the majority of the migrants returned to Morocco within hours, thousands remained, many living rough on the streets. The influx triggered a Europe-wide migrant alert and has led to ongoing tensions and security concerns in the region.

Sanchez also ruled out any responsibility on the part of the Moroccan authorities for the sudden influx of migrants. He emphasized the importance of cooperation with Morocco in resolving the crisis, promising an additional 168 million euros ($195 million) in aid for Ceuta. "We must be aware that this crisis can only be resolved through cooperation and not through distrust towards Morocco," he said.

The prime minister also highlighted the role of disinformation in the crisis, noting that false claims were spread online, including by human trafficking groups, that it was impossible for migrants who entered Ceuta by swimming to be deported to Morocco. This misinformation was believed to have contributed to the scale of the crisis.

Spain’s left-wing government estimates that between 3,500 and 7,000 migrants remain in Ceuta, including unaccompanied minors. Right-wing politicians in Ceuta, however, claim the number is at least 10,000. The situation has led to regular demonstrations by residents of Ceuta, who are concerned about security and hygiene issues linked to the migrant influx.

The Spanish government has requested emergency funding from the European Union to address the crisis. Sanchez has appealed for European solidarity to deal with the migration crisis on the continent, emphasizing the need for a coordinated response to the challenges posed by mass migration.

The Ceuta crisis has underscored the complexities of managing migration in the European Union and has highlighted the role of disinformation in exacerbating such situations. As Spain and its European partners seek to address the crisis, the need for accurate information and effective communication has never been more critical.