Spain’s King to Visit Ceuta After Migration Crisis

Spain’s King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia are expected to visit Ceuta on Tuesday as the North African enclave continues to recover from a major migration crisis that saw more than 70,000 people cross from Morocco in two days.

Emergency Shelters Cleared

On 30 and 31 July, more than 70,000 people crossed into Ceuta, whose population is around 80,000. Most returned within hours, but thousands remained in makeshift camps and emergency shelters for weeks. On Sunday, more than 350 police officers and soldiers cleared the last major informal settlement at El Guano, transferring residents to reception centres.

Migration Deepens Local Divisions

The crisis has exposed divisions among Ceuta’s residents, around 40% of whom are Muslim. While some have demanded tighter border controls, others have condemned hostility towards migrants. In the predominantly Muslim neighbourhood of El Príncipe, residents sheltered women and children amid growing tensions.

Community Leaders Condemn Attacks

Community representative Ahmed Enfed-Dal criticised attacks on shelters and efforts to obstruct Red Cross food deliveries. The response highlighted contrasting attitudes towards migrants as authorities continued efforts to manage the aftermath of the influx.

Royal Visit Carries Political Significance

King Felipe and Queen Letizia are expected to meet local officials and civil society representatives before travelling to Melilla on Wednesday. The visit marks their first trip to the two Spanish enclaves since 2007 and comes ahead of Spain’s 29 November general election, with migration a major political issue.

Morocco’s Claims Add Diplomatic Tension

The visit also carries diplomatic significance because Morocco claims sovereignty over Ceuta and Melilla, which remain under Spanish administration. The royal couple’s trip comes as the enclave continues to address the humanitarian and political consequences of the migration crisis.