Spain imposes temporary border controls on travelers from Italy

Spain will temporarily introduce border controls for travelers arriving from Italy, stepping up a dispute between the two European Union member states over migration policies.

According to a report by El País, the Spanish government will implement checks at internal borders, as well as in ports and airports, focusing on verifying travelers’ identity and citizenship. The controls will be carried out on a selective basis and are set to remain in force until September 7.

The move follows remarks by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on illegal migration and comes amid escalating tensions between Madrid and Rome. Spain has hardened its stance after Italy introduced its own border controls targeting travelers arriving from Spain, citing a surge in irregular migration into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta.

On August 7, the Spanish government warned that if Italy does not lift its restrictions by Sunday, August 9, “Spain will be forced to take proportionate measures to protect the interests and dignity of its citizens.”

Hours later, Italian authorities said the controls would remain in place at least until August 15. “Italy does not accept ultimatums or impositions from abroad regarding national security and border control,” officials said.

By Tamilla Hasanova