Spain has sharply condemned what it described as the "selfish, polarising and unlawful" reactions of certain European Union countries following a massive influx of approximately 60,000 migrants from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta. The unprecedented surge saw tens of thousands reach the territory on July 30.

This incident has ignited a diplomatic firestorm, highlighting deep divisions within the EU over border management and migration policy. Ceuta, a Spanish territory on the North African coast, is one of the EU's external borders, and the sheer volume of arrivals overwhelmed local resources and control mechanisms, prompting urgent discussions among member states.

Spanish officials reported on Saturday that nearly all migrants who entered Ceuta during the surge had been returned. The country's interior minister, Fernando Grande-Marlaska, stated that the situation had "almost returned to normal," with businesses reopening and control over the border largely restored within 48 hours. However, the human cost was significant, with the death toll from the crossings rising to at least 67.

The fallout has seen Italy temporarily suspend Spain's participation in the EU's border-free Schengen area, a move supported by Finland and Denmark, while the Czech Republic urged a similar suspension. This has prompted Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez to call for an urgent meeting of EU interior ministers, emphasizing that "the security of our external borders is a shared responsibility of all Member States."

An open letter signed by 22 of the EU's 27 member states echoed concerns about the developments in Ceuta. While acknowledging Spain's cooperation with Morocco for the swift return of migrants, these nations called for a video conference to "reach agreement on mobilising EU instruments and support for Spain to restore effective control of the border."

In a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Prime Minister Sanchez expressed "serious concerns about some European governments." He differentiated between those showing "support and solidarity" and others who had "chosen to attack Spain, driven by prejudice, fake news, ignorance, or political interest." Sanchez also pointed out that Ceuta is not part of the Schengen zone, implying that such reactions were misplaced.

"The European Union cannot afford this kind of selfish, polarising and unlawful reaction," Sanchez stated, underscoring his view that the bloc's unity was being tested. Meanwhile, the UK Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, reportedly spoke with Sanchez and indicated that the UK was providing assistance where possible.

Spain has begun implementing measures to prevent future uncontrolled crossings, including the establishment of an inflatable maritime barrier. The incident has underscored the persistent challenges faced by European nations in managing irregular migration flows and the varying approaches taken by member states in responding to such crises.