Spain has threatened to retaliate against Italy if Rome fails to lift border checks introduced after a recent surge in migration through Ceuta.
The dispute followed the arrival of thousands of migrants in Ceuta, Spain’s North African territory, from neighbouring Morocco.
The development prompted Italy to temporarily suspend parts of its Schengen free-travel arrangement with Spain.
Spanish Foreign Minister, Jose Manuel Albares, criticised the Italian decision, describing it as discriminatory and damaging to European unity.
Albares gave Italy until Sunday, August 9, to withdraw the checks, warning that Spain would respond with proportional measures if Rome refused.
Italy, however, rejected the ultimatum and said its measures would remain in place.
The government of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said it would continue air and maritime checks on third-country nationals arriving from Spain until at least August 15.
Italian authorities said the checks were necessary because of national security concerns and fears of another wave of irregular migration, particularly ahead of expected crossings in mid-August.
The dispute has also raised concerns over the conditions facing migrants stranded in Ceuta.
Thousands of migrants remain in the territory, including hundreds of unaccompanied children. Humanitarian groups have raised concerns over shortages of food, water and shelter following clashes at the border that reportedly left dozens dead.
The latest disagreement adds to growing tensions over migration policies among European countries as governments struggle to balance border security with the free movement arrangements under the Schengen system.
