France is set to tighten its borders with Spain, Interior Minister Laurent Nunez announced on Friday. The decision follows a significant migration event in which approximately 40,000 migrants crossed from Morocco into Spain’s north African enclave of Ceuta, a territory with a total population of 80,000. The sudden surge has prompted the Spanish government to deploy troops to bolster security in the region.
Nunez confirmed on X that he issued instructions Thursday night to immediately step up controls along the border. Additionally, he announced the activation of a rapid intervention border force to conduct in-depth inspections. While speaking with broadcaster RTL, Nunez noted that he had already consulted with his Spanish counterpart and planned to hold further discussions on Friday.
Although travel between France and Spain, both of which are part of the Schengen area, typically involves no checks, member governments retain the right to reinstate controls if deemed necessary. Nunez emphasized that existing controls at the French-Spanish border have already been reinforced in recent months. He noted that a mobile force is permanently deployed, adding, "We will, of course, take measures if there are movements toward French territory. In any case, we will obviously strengthen border controls."
Lunez did not clarify exactly how or where the checks would take place, but it is likely to involve land crossings between the two countries, either by car or by train. Travelers should also be aware of existing transportation disruptions in the region. The A63, a primary road connecting the two nations, remains closed south of Bordeaux due to wildfires. Furthermore, mainline train services south of Bordeaux have been suspended, with French rail operator SNCF stating that operations will not resume until at least Sunday, August 2nd.
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