69,500 Returned to Morocco – and Europe Turns Its Fire on Spain

Madrid estimates that about 69,500 migrants were returned to Morocco after crossing the border in Ceuta, a figure tens of percent higher than the original estimate. 72 people were killed on the Spanish side and 11 more on the Moroccan side. 22 countries attacked Spain, Italy suspended Schengen, and Madrid accuses Europe of abandonment.

Madrid estimates that about 69,500 migrants were returned to Moroccan territory after crossing the border in Ceuta, a figure tens of percent higher than the original estimate of about 50,000. The official death toll on the Spanish side stands at 72 people, and on the Moroccan side 11 additional deaths were reported. 22 countries attacked Spain, and Italy suspended the Schengen Agreement with it. In Madrid, they accuse Europe of abandonment, and Prime Minister Sánchez described the Union's response as "selfish, polarized, and illegal." Von der Leyen praised the swift handling but called for strengthening borders. Spain's isolation also stems from its opposition to increasing the defense budget to 5% of GDP and its critical positions toward Israel.