A political controversy has erupted following the recent migrant surge in Spain’s Ceuta enclave, after Republican Congressman Thomas Massie pointed to a U.S. congressional report that he says conflicts with the reaction of some lawmakers who criticized the border crisis.

Around 60,000 migrants reportedly crossed into Ceuta from Morocco during the incident, with many later returning to Morocco. The episode triggered strong reactions from political figures in the United States and Europe, including former U.S. President Donald Trump, who cited the situation as an example of the challenges linked to large-scale migration.

Massie shared a post on X highlighting language from a House Appropriations Committee report linked to a 2027 funding bill. He argued that lawmakers who expressed outrage over the Ceuta situation had recently supported a document containing language favorable to Morocco’s longstanding claims over Ceuta and Melilla.

The report stated that the Spanish-administered cities were “located in Moroccan territory” and supported diplomatic engagement between Morocco and Spain regarding their future status.

Massie said the language contradicted the position taken by some politicians who later warned about border security concerns following the migrant surge.

However, the committee report does not legally transfer the territories or change Spain’s sovereignty over Ceuta and Melilla. It reflects language in a congressional document addressing Morocco’s territorial claims and encouraging diplomatic discussions.

The controversy has also intensified online, with some social media users questioning the political reactions surrounding the crisis, while others focused on the broader migration and sovereignty issues involving Spain and Morocco.