France argues that "the increase in terrorist actions and criminal networks that encourage the irregular flow of migrants" should be used to implement the measure. It shall be in force from 1 November to 30 April. The French Government has informed the Council of the European Union (EC) of this decision.
The new resolution could affect not only the land between Gipuzkoa, Navarra and Iparralde, but also the maritime traffic between Hondarribia and Hendaya.
In recent years there have been many measures that the French Government has put in place at the borders. The French police, which in 2015 ordered the closure of the borders following several attacks, has continued to monitor the area since then. Various groups have denounced that they become “routine border controls”.