Italy and Spain extend border controls again after Ceuta migrant surge

Italy, Spain Prolong Schengen Border Suspension Over Ceuta Migrant Influx

Extension of Schengen Border Suspension

ROME, Sept 15 (Reuters) - Italy and Spain on Tuesday extended the suspension of the European Union's border-free arrangement with each other for another 15 days, their interior ministries said.

Reasons for the Extension

Italy's Security Concerns

Italy said the decision was taken because "significant risks to internal security persist, alongside a potential threat linked to possible terrorist infiltration", the ministry said.

Spain's Position

Spain's Interior Ministry said in a statement that the circumstances that justified the measure remained in place, and that Madrid had therefore decided to maintain border controls with Italy until October 8.

Background to the Suspension

Initial Suspension Triggered by Ceuta Migrant Influx

Italy first suspended the Schengen arrangements with Madrid on July 31 in response to a mass influx of migrants into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta from neighbouring Morocco.

Reporting Credits

(Reporting by Alvise Armellini in Rome and Emma Pinedo in Madrid; editing by Francesca Piscioneri and Charlie Devereux)