T ragedy struck off the coast of Lesbos, Greece, as a migrant boat carrying around 30 people capsized, leaving seven dead, including two children, and 23 others rescued by the Greek coast guard.
The vessel, an inflatable boat, sank near the Turkish coastline under mild weather conditions. According to authorities, the boat took on water, leading to the deadly incident.
Rescue Efforts & Ongoing Search
Initially, the coast guard recovered four bodies in the Aegean Sea. However, after further searches, three more victims were found. Among the dead were four women, a boy, and a girl, while details on the remaining victims, including their nationalities, remain undisclosed.
Migrant Crossings & Rising Death Toll
Greece remains a key entry point for migrants from Asia and the Middle East attempting to reach Western Europe. The crossing is notoriously dangerous, with nearly 2,500 migrant deaths recorded last year, according to the United Nations.
So far in 2025, nearly 9,000 people have entered Greece, mostly by sea, while over 54,000 migrants arrived in 2024, highlighting the ongoing migration crisis.
Greece's Stricter Stance on Migration
The Greek government, under Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has toughened its stance on illegal migration. Speaking in parliament on Wednesday, Mitsotakis reaffirmed the country’s position:
"If you want to enter Greece illegally and are not entitled to asylum, we will do whatever we can to send you back where you came from. Smugglers and NGOs cooperating with them will not determine who enters our country."
The government has increased border patrols and reinforced anti-smuggling measures, a move that has drawn both support and criticism from international rights groups.
Ongoing Crisis
Just last month, Greek maritime police reported one migrant dead and 18 rescued after smugglers abandoned them at sea. The perilous crossings continue despite repeated warnings and stricter policies.
Rescue operations are still underway for any possible survivors from Thursday’s tragedy.
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