Spanish Prime Minister Sánchez Accuses Israel and Russia of Spreading Disinformation Over Ceuta Migrant Influx

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said on Monday that Russia and Israel had spread and amplified disinformation about the recent mass influx of migrants into Spain’s North African enclave of Ceuta, citing research from the European Union’s foreign policy arm, the European External Action Service (EEAS).

Speaking to Cadena Ser radio, Sánchez added, “After July 30 and 31, we saw a wave of rumours and disinformation circulating on social networks linked to both Russia and Israel, as well as to an international ultra‑right that consistently weaponises migration to attack not only Spain but also Europe and sow division.”

He described it as “evident” that both countries were exploiting the crisis to criticise Madrid, reflecting their disagreement with Spain’s stance on the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Sánchez also dismissed any involvement by Moroccan authorities in the sudden influx of migrants into Ceuta.

He noted, “None of the intelligence services with which the Spanish government normally cooperates raise any doubts—let alone suggest—any involvement by the Moroccan authorities.”

Spanish authorities report that the vast majority of the roughly 70 000 individuals who entered Ceuta have since been repatriated to Morocco.

Spain’s left‑leaning government estimates that between 3 500 and 7 000 migrants—including unaccompanied minors—remain in the territory, while Ceuta’s right‑wing leaders claim the figure is at least 10 000.

Sánchez added that, during the influx, disinformation was being circulated online, including by human‑trafficking groups. One false claim asserted that migrants could not be deported if they entered Ceuta by swimming—a statement that remains untrue.

He concluded, “We are continuing to investigate what happened.”

(FRANCE 24 with Reuters and AFP)

Source link