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Thousands of migrants remain stranded in Spanish enclave of Ceuta

Authorities estimate at least 10,000 people are still residing in the North African Spanish territory following an unprecedented surge in arrivals last month. The enclave faces mounting pressure to manage the displaced population amid limited resources and accommodation.

LSN World News · 21 September 2026

Thousands of migrants remain stranded in Spanish enclave of Ceuta

The Spanish enclave of Ceuta continues to grapple with a significant migrant population following record-breaking arrivals in July that overwhelmed local authorities and facilities. Officials have confirmed that a minimum of 10,000 individuals remain in the territory, which sits on the Moroccan coast and serves as a gateway to Europe for migrants from Africa and beyond.

The July surge represented an unprecedented influx for the small enclave, testing emergency response systems and creating humanitarian challenges. Authorities have been forced to establish makeshift accommodations and coordinate efforts to manage basic services including food, water, and medical care for the stranded population.

Local officials have appealed for national and international support to address the situation, citing the limited infrastructure available in the territory. The crisis has highlighted the broader migration pressures facing Mediterranean regions and the strain placed on border communities when sudden mass movements occur.

Meanwhile, coordination between Spanish authorities and regional partners continues as officials work to process cases and determine the status of those remaining in the enclave. The situation underscores ongoing challenges in managing migration flows across North Africa and Southern Europe.