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Italy extends Schengen suspension with Spain for another 15 days
Italy said the renewal was needed after security risks and possible terrorist infiltration remained unchanged, extending the Schengen suspension for a third time.
On Tuesday, Italy and Spain extended the suspension of the European Union's border-free Schengen arrangement for another 15 days, Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi confirmed in a note to the European Commission.
The diplomatic showdown began August 1st, when Italy introduced temporary measures after tens of thousands of migrants from Morocco rushed the Spanish territory of Ceuta in July.
Assessments from a border security committee deemed the extension necessary, citing "significant risks to internal security" and "potential dangers linked to possible terrorist infiltration" as justifications.
Drawing condemnation from the European Union, Rome's original suspension led to a reciprocal suspension by Madrid on travelers arriving from Italy, escalating the diplomatic dispute.
Spain's Interior Ministry stated border checks on travelers from Italy will last until October 8th, though officials noted "a change in those circumstances may warrant a modification of the envisaged timeframe.
ITALY is considering lifting the Schengen suspension at the border with Slovenia and introducing alternative measures, such as joint police patrols, to combat illegal migration after December 18.
Italy announced on Tuesday it was extending border controls on travelers from Spain for another 15 days, prompting a similar response from Madrid, as tensions between the two European Union (EU) members continue.