The Partido Popular (PP) has submitted a Congreso de los Diputados motion (proposición no de ley) calling on the government to classify the situation in the Spanish exclave of Ceuta as a matter of “national security and territorial integrity”. The text calls for an increase in the “state security forces and bodies” and the “Fuerzas Armadas” in the city, additional staffing capacity at the immigration offices, and the immediate return of all migrants remaining in Ceuta after crossing the border.
Attributed statements: PP deputy secretary-general Cuca Gamarra spoke on Monday, 17 August 2026, of “absolute passivity” on the part of the Gobierno de España and launched a strong attack on Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez ; he was “in his hammock” instead of taking action. The party said the motion was intended to address the “national security crisis” in Ceuta without delay.
Documented background: At the end of July, numerous people crossed from Morocco to Ceuta in a short period of time. According to consistent reports, the situation in the autonomous city has still not fully returned to normal. Europa Press reported that the city’s president had accused the central government of responding late and inadequately to the mass border crossings. In early August, EFE reported that returns to Morocco following the border crossings were under way, accompanied by police.
Government measures: According to El País, the government announced on 17 August that it would activate four additional accommodation facilities in Ceuta, with capacity for a total of 1,500 people. Authorities have also pointed to an increased security force presence and ongoing support measures in the city.
A proposición no de ley is not legally binding; its main effect is political, as it calls on the executive to take specific steps. The Partido Popular’s call to classify the matter as one of “national security and territorial integrity” is intended to give a greater role to the security services and state administration in Ceuta. The Congreso de los Diputados will consider the motion through the regular parliamentary procedure.
Separating facts from demands: The mass border crossings at the end of July, the continuing administrative and security measures in Ceuta, and the announcement of additional accommodation are documented facts. The PP is calling for the immediate return of all migrants remaining in Ceuta and for the situation to be formally classified as a national security matter; these are political demands, not legally binding.
Editor: Phillipe Schmidt-Araguin (Article created with AI assistance).