Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares announced that his country has activated preventive measures and is coordinating with Moroccan authorities to address the potential mass crossing attempt. He stated that the latest social media calls have so far had less impact than those linked to the mass crossing in July. Albares made these comments in an interview with Canal Sur Radio and Catalunya Ràdio.
The expected September 23 mobilization has circulated on social media and messaging platforms in recent weeks, with Spanish media identifying it as a possible date for a new attempt. This date also coincides with Morocco's legislative elections. According to RTVE, over 12,000 messages, audio recordings, and videos exchanged in WhatsApp groups between August 4 and 13 were analyzed, showing a shift in discussion from August 15 to September 23.
The Spanish government has launched a campaign against what it considers false information, with the Spanish Embassy in Morocco urging would-be irregular migrants not to be misled by false information. The Embassy emphasized that a Spanish Supreme Court ruling does not modify Spain's immigration law, does not declare border rejection illegal, and does not prevent returns.
Albares stated that Madrid is working with Moroccan authorities on preventive measures and could deploy a deterrence operation if necessary to prevent another mass crossing. He is in contact with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita to counter misinformation and ensure that necessary personnel can be deployed to deter or contain any attempted crossing.
Albares and Bourita have been in regular communication, with Albares mentioning that he speaks with Bourita almost daily, including about the return of migrants once the necessary case files are ready. This cooperation is part of broader bilateral relations between Spain and Morocco.
Albares also addressed the issue of statements questioning the Spanish status of Ceuta and Melilla, which he believes damage Spain-Morocco relations. He recalled that Spain had summoned Morocco's ambassador after comments by two Moroccan ministers. Despite this, Albares stressed the importance of diplomatic and European dialogue with Morocco.
The situation at the border between Spain and Morocco remains complex, with both countries working to coordinate their efforts and prevent irregular migration attempts. The Spanish government continues to work with Moroccan authorities to address the issue and ensure the necessary measures are in place to manage any potential mass crossing attempt.
Key points
- Spain and Morocco are preparing for a possible mass crossing attempt into Ceuta on September 23.
- The Spanish government has launched a campaign against false information, urging would-be irregular migrants not to attempt to enter Ceuta or Melilla.
- Albares and Bourita are in regular communication to coordinate efforts and prevent irregular migration attempts.
