Politico: Four EU countries decline to back letter on Ceuta migration crisis

Four European Union member states declined to sign a letter sent to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on August 1 addressing the migration crisis in Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta, highlighting divisions within the bloc over the response to the recent surge in migrant arrivals.

Ireland, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, along with France, Portugal and Luxembourg, did not endorse the letter, according to Politico.

According to a diplomat from one of the four countries, the governments objected because they believed the letter failed to demonstrate sufficient solidarity with Spain and instead risked escalating political tensions surrounding the crisis.

The EU continues to assess the events that unfolded in Ceuta at the end of July, with member states expressing differing views on responsibility for the situation, while Madrid has rejected suggestions that it bears sole responsibility.

During the surge, tens of thousands of migrants reached the autonomous Spanish city by swimming or crossing on foot, bypassing the breakwater separating Ceuta from Morocco.

In response, Spanish authorities deployed the military to assist with security operations in the city.

According to the Spanish government, at least 72 people died while attempting to reach Ceuta. Moroccan authorities reported 11 fatalities. Officials believe that the vast majority of migrants who entered Ceuta have since returned to Morocco.

By Sabina Mammadli