Spain has deployed military forces to its North African enclave of Ceuta after thousands of migrants crossed from Morocco, leaving at least 34 people dead during the crossings.

The move came after local authorities requested reinforcements as security forces struggled to contain the influx.

Many migrants entered by swimming around border barriers or crossing on foot, overwhelming local infrastructure and prompting Spain to send additional troops and police.

Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described the mass crossing as a violation of Spain's territorial integrity and blamed human trafficking networks for encouraging the dangerous journey.

Spanish authorities have begun returning thousands of migrants to Morocco while strengthening border security.

The incident has triggered renewed debate across Europe over migration management and cooperation between Spain and Morocco.