The Spanish government is introducing temporary border controls for all flights and sea vessels arriving from Italy. The restrictions take effect at midnight on Saturday, August 8, 2026, and will last at least until September 7. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing DW.

The border controls are introduced in response to similar measures taken by Italy a week ago due to the influx of tens of thousands of migrants from Morocco into the Spanish exclave of Ceuta.

On August 7, Spain demanded that Italy lift border checks, but Italian authorities announced that they would remain in place at least until August 15, when a new wave of migrants is expected to arrive in Ceuta.

Earlier it was reported that the migration crisis caused by the mass arrival of Moroccan residents in Ceuta has become the most serious for Spain in recent times and has provoked a deterioration in relations with neighboring countries in Europe. Italy's right-wing government called for Spain's exclusion from the Schengen Agreement. Spanish authorities called such a reaction "selfish" and "provoking a split" in the EU.

Earlier, Kursiv reported that between 72,000 and 78,000 illegal migrants, according to various estimates, broke into the Spanish semi-exclave in North Africa bordering Morocco, by swimming and overland. The crisis escalated after a ruling by Spain's Supreme Court that banned the simplified expulsion of foreigners detained at sea. Currently, about 70,000 people have already been returned to Morocco.

Background of the Ceuta crisis

Ceuta is a Spanish semi-exclave in North Africa with a land border with Morocco. This region is one of the main routes for illegal migration to Europe. In recent weeks, the arrival of thousands of migrants has forced Spanish authorities to take emergency measures.

Italy's reaction has intensified debates on migration policy in Europe. The right-wing government accused Spain of violating Schengen area rules and demanded tough measures. This situation has become a test for the EU's internal unity.

Features of border controls

Under the new rules, all flights and sea vessels from Italy will undergo Spanish border controls. These measures are temporary and are planned for at least a month. Spanish authorities justify this decision by the need to ensure national security and public order.

International reaction

The situation has also drawn attention at the international level. European Union countries are watching the tension between Spain and Italy with concern. Some experts believe that this crisis could prompt the EU to reconsider its migration policy.

Conclusion

The migration crisis in Ceuta has strained relations between Spain and Italy, threatening the EU's internal unity. Both countries are defending their positions, and the European Union is forced to seek solutions. The further development of the situation will become clear in the coming weeks.