Spain activates border monitoring measures for arrivals from Italy

Spain began border checks on travelers arriving from Italy on Saturday, in response to similar measures imposed by Rome following an unprecedented influx of migrants into the enclave of Ceuta.

Madrid had announced on Friday that it would proceed with tightening border controls, citing the persistent pressure of irregular migration faced by Italy, which has deepened the rift between the two European Union and NATO allies.

The left-wing Spanish government condemned Rome’s decision to suspend the Schengen Agreement with Spain as of July 31, closing its sea and air ports to non-Spanish citizens arriving from Spain, and strengthening land border surveillance and inspection operations.

More than 70,000 migrants crossed from Morocco into Ceuta on July 30 and 31, although the vast majority returned to Morocco within 48 hours. This surge has raised concerns among several European countries, particularly right-wing governments that call for stricter controls on irregular migration.

However, existing regulations in Ceuta prevent migrants from continuing their journey to mainland Europe, as they are required to undergo additional border checks.

The Spanish Ministry of the Interior stated that the new inspection measures for travelers arriving from Italy would remain in effect until September 7.