Spain has threatened retaliation against Italy if it fails to lift border controls after a surge in migrant crossings from Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in North Africa. The threat emerged today, as officials stated that over 60,000 migrants had reached Ceuta from Morocco since the start of the year. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has been critical of the situation, blaming traffickers for the crisis. He has called for greater international cooperation to address the issue. The Spanish government is understood to be considering measures to strengthen its defence against migrant arrivals.

The migrant crisis in Ceuta has been ongoing for several months, with thousands of people attempting to cross the border from Morocco each week. The situation has put a strain on Spain's resources, with the country struggling to provide adequate housing and support for the new arrivals. The Spanish government has been working with Moroccan authorities to try and stem the flow of migrants, but so far, results have been limited. Officials stated that the situation in Ceuta was 'unacceptable' and that something needed to be done to address it.

The threat of retaliation from Spain is seen as a significant escalation of the situation, and it is understood that Italian officials are taking the threat seriously. The two countries have a complex relationship, and tensions have been running high in recent months. The migrant crisis has added to the strain, and it is unclear how the situation will be resolved. Spain's Prime Minister has stated that he will not back down in the face of the crisis, and that he will do everything in his power to protect the country's borders.

The situation is likely to remain volatile in the coming days, with both countries digging in their heels. The European Union has been watching the situation closely, and it is understood that officials are working behind the scenes to try and resolve the crisis. The migrant crisis in Ceuta has highlighted the need for greater cooperation between countries, and it remains to be seen whether a solution can be found.