"The armed forces will reinforce the Civil Guard in the exercise of its powers and any others that may be necessary to maintain security in the city of Ceuta," the ministry said. Ceuta, on Morocco's northern coast, is separated from mainland Spain by the Strait of Gibraltar and has long been a focal point for migrants attempting to reach Europe. Along with its larger sister city Melilla, Ceuta has long been a flashpoint in diplomatic relations between Morocco and Spain. Madrid asserts that both territories are integral parts of Spain and have the same status as the semi-autonomous regions on its mainland. Some 300 to 400 people also crossed into Melilla, Spain's second autonomous city in northern Africa, from Morocco, according to local officials.