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The Spanish exclave of Ceuta appeared to return to normalcy over the weekend, yet residents remained preoccupied with the week’s extraordinary events. Approximately 60,000 migrants who had entered the North African territory through swimming and breaching barriers had largely departed back to Morocco by Sunday, though some stayed behind. Naval vessels from Spain’s civil guard continued recovery operations in waters adjacent to the urban beach where the surge had occurred days earlier.
Commercial activity resumed as shops unlocked their doors and residents joined visitors at outdoor establishments throughout the city of 84,000. Despite the surface return to routine, Ceuta—known for its multicultural character—confronted deep divisions over the border incident’s causes and responsibility. Disagreement divided the community as residents debated fundamental questions about accountability and the circumstances that enabled the crossing.
Spanish authorities confirmed that at least 72 people perished during the chaos, with deaths attributed to both drowning and a stampede at a breakwater. The crisis has intensified immigration discussions across Europe and internationally. Residents offered conflicting assessments of the event, with some expressing sympathy for migrants while others criticized those responsible for allowing the breach.
Far-right political figures and online personalities descended on Ceuta over the weekend, demanding expulsion of remaining migrants. Alvise Pérez, a far-right European Parliament member, faced angry counterprotesters and required police protection. Santiago Abascal, leader of the Vox party, characterized the arrivals as “an invasion” and assailed the Spanish government for inadequate border protection.
The border surge exposed fractures in the city’s traditionally harmonious multicultural fabric, with some residents questioning the loyalty of foreign-born populations. Pope Leo XVI expressed concern Sunday about the situation and called for peaceful resolutions based on stability and justice.
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