Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska Calls for Calm After Ceuta Clashes, Cites 5,000 Migrants Remaining

On August 28, 2026, Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska addressed the Congress of Deputies, calling for calm and the cessation of all acts of violence following recent clashes in Ceuta. He stated that violence cannot resolve the complex crisis, which has seen a massive influx of migrants into the city. Marlaska cited reports from La Vanguardia that 5,000 migrants remain in Ceuta, though other sources do not specify this number. Marlaska denied claims from the CNI that a mass attack was anticipated, insisting such reports are false. He also criticized far-right parties for inciting hatred and confrontation on the streets. These statements were reported by multiple outlets, though 20-Minutos uniquely highlighted his denial of the CNI’s warnings. La Vanguardia and Hespress both emphasized his call for calm, with La Vanguardia adding his criticism of far-right groups. The event highlights the ongoing tensions in Ceuta, with the Spanish government seeking to de-escalate violence while managing the migrant crisis. The CNI’s role and the accuracy of its warnings remain a point of divergence among the sources.