Sánchez Accuses Russian, Israeli Networks of Fueling Ceuta Disinformation After 72,000 Migrant Surge
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Sep 1
Sánchez Accuses Russian, Israeli Networks of Fueling Ceuta Disinformation After 72,000 Migrant Surge
3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Sep 1
Summary
Pedro Sánchez said networks linked to Russia and Israel spread false rumors after more than 72,000 migrants rushed from Morocco into Ceuta on July 30-31, framing it as retaliation for Spain's stance on Ukraine and Gaza.
EEAS research cited by Sánchez allegedly tied the online activity to Russian and Israeli networks, though he provided no details and the EU diplomatic service did not immediately comment.
Sánchez also rejected claims that Morocco encouraged the crossings, despite Ceuta's mayor suggesting Rabat may have at least permitted them; about 5,000 migrants, including 1,200 minors, remained in Ceuta at end-August.
Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar called the accusation a "blatant lie," and Russian officials also denied it, as Spain's handling of migration came under wider European scrutiny.
At least 70 people died in the mass crossing, and the crisis has intensified debate over Spain's migrant regularization plan after 22 EU leaders warned against policies seen as pull factors.