**Title: Spain’s Sanchez Accuses Russia and Israel of Disinformation Amid Ceuta Migrant Crisis**
**Date: August 31, 2026**
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has publicly accused Russia and Israel of disseminating disinformation regarding the recent surge of migrants in Ceuta, a Spanish enclave located on the northern coast of Africa. This statement was made during an interview on Cadena Ser radio, where Sanchez referenced findings from the European External Action Service (EEAS), the European Union's foreign service.
The migrant crisis in Ceuta escalated dramatically at the end of July, when approximately 70,000 individuals crossed from Morocco into the territory over a span of just a few days. While many of these migrants returned to Morocco shortly after their arrival, a significant number have remained in Ceuta, leading to concerns about living conditions and local resources.
Sanchez highlighted that following the influx on July 30 and 31, there was a notable increase in rumors and disinformation circulating on social media platforms, which he attributed to entities linked to Russia and Israel, as well as to an "ultra-right international" group that often utilizes migration issues to criticize both Spain and the broader European context. He remarked, “It is evident that these two countries have used the crisis to criticize the Spanish government,” suggesting that their actions were motivated by political disagreements with Madrid over the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
In light of the situation, Sanchez has also ruled out any involvement from Moroccan authorities in orchestrating the sudden influx of migrants. He stated that no intelligence agencies with which Spain typically collaborates have indicated any such involvement. “We must be aware that this crisis can only be resolved through cooperation and not through distrust towards Morocco,” he emphasized. To address the challenges posed by the migrant situation, Sanchez announced an additional allocation of 168 million euros (approximately $195 million) in aid for Ceuta.
The prime minister also addressed the spread of misinformation during the crisis, particularly claims propagated by human trafficking groups suggesting that individuals who entered Ceuta via swimming could not be deported back to Morocco. He described these claims as false and indicative of the broader disinformation campaign surrounding the crisis.
Local residents in Ceuta, which spans just 18 square kilometers and has a population of around 80,000, have expressed their concerns through regular demonstrations. They have raised alarms about security and hygiene issues stemming from the migrant influx. The Spanish government estimates that between 3,500 and 7,000 migrants are currently in Ceuta, including unaccompanied minors, while local right-wing politicians contend that the number is closer to 10,000.
As the situation continues to unfold, Sanchez has called for European solidarity to tackle the ongoing migration crisis, urging a collaborative approach among EU member states to manage the challenges presented by increased migration flows. The prime minister's comments reflect the complex interplay of migration, politics, and international relations that characterize the current landscape in Ceuta and beyond.