After thousands of migrants entered Ceuta, the pro‑immigration policies of Pedro Sánchez were blamed for the surge, though the reality is more complex. The city, home to Christians, Muslims, Jews and Hindus, usually enjoys relative harmony, but the recent influx sparked heated debate.

Far‑right politician Alvise Pérez called for the migrants to be expelled, only to be forced to shelter in a bar while residents banged on the windows; police later escorted him away. Among the counterprotesters was 20‑year‑old student Noor Ahmed, who denounced the protest as opportunistic.

On Sunday, Santiago Abascal, leader of the Vox party, visited Ceuta and condemned the Spanish government, calling the influx an “invasion” and warning that the city’s borders are the “walls of our home.”

Local resident Eva Barrientos, a logistics worker, attended the protest and noted that Ceuta’s four cultures have long lived together peacefully, but now feels an “enemy within” among foreign‑born residents. The recent unrest highlighted growing tensions over migration and national loyalty, and analysts say it may influence upcoming elections and policy debates. The episode underscores the polarized climate in Spain’s northern territories and residents hope for calm as authorities discuss tighter border measures and stronger community dialogue.