Morocco blames Ceuta border surge on "exploitation of digital platforms," misleading info
August 3, 2026 / 9:56 AM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Morocco blames "malicious exploitation of digital platforms" and misleading information for the migrant surge into Ceuta.
- Migrants reported seeing social media posts and videos suggesting "Spain is an open door."
- Spain's Prime Minister previously blamed "human trafficking mafias."
- Moroccan officials estimate around 40,000 people headed toward Ceuta and 1,135 toward Melilla.
- Conflicting death tolls were reported: 11 by Morocco and at least 72 by Spain.
- Most migrants have been returned to Morocco, and those reaching Melilla were immediately sent back.
- Spain intends to add fencing around Ceuta.
- European leaders reacted with condemnation and calls for strengthened border controls.