Over 70,000 migrants arrived in Ceuta during the period of July 29-30, and 94 people died, mostly by drowning.

During the period of July 29-30, over 70,000 migrants entered Ceuta, and authorities reported 94 deaths, mostly by drowning.

Tensions rose after a decision by the Spanish court which established that migrants can only be returned if they cross a physical barrier, which encouraged new crossings. Police unions have called for additional measures, and the Spanish government attributed the wave of migrants to misinformation from criminal networks. A floating barrier was installed at sea on August 1, but controls in Morocco were only tightened a few days before the crisis.

Morocco, which receives funding from the EU for migration control, has been criticized for delaying measures. The crisis has reignited the debate on European migration policy and cooperation with North African states. The European Commission announced the continuation of financial support for border strengthening.