Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday rejected demands from Spain to lift emergency border checks introduced following a mass arrival of migrants in Ceuta last week, Politico reported.
The Italian prime minister's office stated that Italy does not accept ultimatums or demands from abroad regarding national security and border control. Madrid had threatened proportional measures if Rome failed to end border checks and the temporary suspension of Schengen agreement rules by August 9.
Rome stated that border checks on travelers from Spain will remain until at least August 15 and until security and terrorism risks are completely ruled out. Italian officials noted that a new wave of migrants is expected in Ceuta on August 15, adding that decisions will only be reviewed once risks to Italy and broader illegal migration into Europe are eliminated.
Border surge and security measures in Ceuta
The border dispute follows the entry of an estimated 50,000 to 60,000 migrants into the Spanish North African enclave of Ceuta. The Spanish government reported 67 deaths from drowning and stampedes along the breakwater, while local authorities in Ceuta told a television channel that 86 people died.
Spain announced the installation of a 500-meter protective maritime barrier along its border with Morocco. Spanish officials said they intend to deport illegal arrivals as quickly as possible despite court restrictions on immediate expulsion rules.
Spanish media reported that several individuals under investigation for jihadist crimes were identified among the arrivals in Ceuta. Spain's Interior Ministry did not confirm those reports, stating the arrivals do not threaten public safety and that counterterrorism forces maintain constant surveillance across the country.
