Italy and Spain have agreed to continue spot border checks between their territories for an additional 15 days, extending measures initially introduced in August amid tensions over migrant flows. The controls affect travel between the two European Union countries and come after a surge of migrants arriving in Ceuta, Spain’s autonomous exclave located in North Africa.

The Italian Interior Ministry cited ongoing security concerns as the main reason for prolonging its border inspections. Officials pointed to persistent risks to internal safety and highlighted potential threats of terrorist infiltration as justification for maintaining the controls. These measures were first implemented by the right-wing government led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

Spain’s Interior Ministry responded by confirming that its border checks would continue until October 8, emphasizing that the rationale behind the measures has not changed. The Spanish government has maintained that the controls are necessary to manage irregular migration and uphold security along their borders.

The dispute initially arose following an unexpected influx of migrants into Ceuta, which prompted Italy to adopt stricter border measures aiming to curb illegal crossings and safeguard national security. The extension of these spot checks reflects ongoing concerns over migration management and cross-border security within the European Union, particularly between member states sharing external land and sea borders.

Both countries continue to coordinate on the issue amid broader EU efforts to address migration flows and border security challenges.