Italy Calls for Spain's Suspension From Schengen Over Migrant Surge

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Rome: Italy has called for Spain to be suspended from the Schengen free-travel area following a surge in migrant arrivals in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, escalating tensions between the two European countries over migration policy.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said her government was prepared to consider exceptional measures, including suspending Spain from the Schengen zone, after thousands of migrants reached Ceuta from neighbouring Morocco.

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani also backed the move, arguing that uncontrolled irregular migration poses a threat to national security. He criticised Spain's immigration policies, claiming they encourage human trafficking.

Spain strongly rejected the remarks. Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares accused Italian leaders of using migration for political purposes and said Spain expected solidarity from its European partners rather than political rhetoric.

The calls came after thousands of migrants, many of them swimming from Morocco, entered Ceuta in recent days. Spanish authorities said at least nine migrants died while attempting the dangerous crossing.

The Schengen Area allows passport-free travel across 29 European countries. Italy's Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini has also called for the wider suspension of the Schengen system in response to growing migration pressures.