The U.S. State Department has updated its Travel Advisory for Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in North Africa, elevating it to Level 3: Reconsider Travel. This change follows a dramatic influx of migrants entering from Morocco, leading to significant security measures.

The advisory cautions that the “massive and uncontrolled arrival of migrants” could lead to unpredictable and dangerous situations. Spain has responded by deploying its military, National Police, and Guardia Civil to address the situation. The advisory specifically targets Ceuta, with no changes to the rest of Spain.

In a statement, Ceuta’s President Juan Jesús Vivas revealed that about 60,000 migrants entered the area within a 24-hour period. However, Spain’s Interior Ministry later adjusted this figure to approximately 50,000 since Thursday, noting that many have since returned to Morocco.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced plans to increase security personnel in Ceuta, establish a sea barrier to aid in repatriations, and work alongside Moroccan authorities to tackle human trafficking. This surge is believed to be linked to a Spanish Supreme Court ruling which was reportedly mispresented by trafficking networks, causing the influx.

The situation has not gone unnoticed internationally, with President Donald Trump commenting on the crisis during a Cabinet meeting. Trump’s comments likened the situation to an “invasion” and warned of similar scenarios in the United States under different political leadership.

Ceuta, along with Melilla, another Spanish enclave, has long been a focal point for illegal migration to Europe. These territories are located on the African mainland but remain part of Spain and the European Union.