Morocco pledges to repatriate unaccompanied minors from Ceuta

The diplomatic shift follows a chaotic influx that saw thousands cross the border between Morocco and the Spanish territory. While Spanish authorities estimate that 72,000 people entered the enclave during the surge, Moroccan sources place the figure closer to 40,000. Most adult migrants have already been processed and returned, but legal protections for minors have hindered similar immediate action for the children remaining in the enclave.

State news agency MAP, reflecting the official position of the Moroccan government, confirmed that the interior and foreign affairs ministries have been ordered to begin the identification process. This cooperation marks a significant step in de-escalating tensions surrounding the border crossing. Local authorities in Ceuta report that the group includes both those who arrived during the recent surge and children who were already residing in the enclave prior to the events of last week.