The story
Around 60,000 migrants swam around the border from Morocco into Ceuta, part of Spain, which has a population of 80,000.
Spanish authorities said almost all those who reached the enclave have now returned. At least 72 migrants died attempting the journey.
Many EU leaders called for an urgent meeting, asking for the end of policies that could encourage illegal migration. But Spain says that as Ceuta is not part of mainland Spain, there was never a security threat to other EU countries.
News headlines
Runaway online rumors sparked frantic rush by migrants to the Spanish territory of Ceuta
AP News
How Spain’s migrant crisis created a political storm – whipped up by social media
BBC News
EU ministers to back Spain as Ceuta crisis pushes migration up the agenda
Politico
Key words and phrases
runaway
out of control; beyond expectations
- The marketing campaign for the cereal was a runaway success. So many people bought it.
whipped up
caused or made stronger
- The footballer whipped up anger in the crowds by celebrating in front of the losing team.
push (something) up the agenda
bring forward discussion of something because of its importance
- Campaigners say recent heatwaves in the UK are pushing climate change up the agenda. More people want to talk about it.