In a devastating incident that unfolded on Wednesday, a fishing boat carrying a large number of migrants capsized and sank off the coast of Greece. The aftermath of this tragic event revealed a death toll of 79 individuals, with many more still unaccounted for.
Watch: At least 79 dead, hundreds more missing after migrant ship capsizes of Greek coast https://t.co/2k9AVCnt3z
— John Solomon (@jsolomonReports) June 14, 2023
The fishing boat, estimated to be between 80 to 100 feet in length, was alarmingly overcrowded with migrants, a sight captured in aerial photographs provided by the Associated Press. As the vessel sailed through the treacherous waters of the Mediterranean Sea, its engines suddenly failed, causing it to lose stability and eventually succumb to the depths below.
Prior to the engine failure, the migrants on board had repeatedly refused assistance from the Greek coast guard and other vessels, determined to make their way to Italy. Among the migrants were individuals hailing from Egypt, Syria, Palestine, and Pakistan.
Despite the immense challenges, a total of 104 people were successfully rescued, albeit with some requiring immediate and intensive medical attention. In response to this tragic incident, a comprehensive search-and-rescue operation was promptly initiated, involving coast guard ships, aircraft, and naval and merchant vessels.
The operation, spanning throughout the night, aimed to locate any survivors and recover the bodies of those who tragically lost their lives. Expressing his outrage, Ioannis Sarmas, the Greek caretaker prime minister, denounced the “ruthless smugglers who exploit human unhappiness” and declared a national mourning period of three days.
The United Nations Missing Migrants Project reports a staggering number of over 21,000 deaths and disappearances along this route since 2014. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the immense risks undertaken by migrants in search of safety, opportunity, and a better future.
Middle Eastern countries have a crucial role to play in preventing risky and illegal migration tactics used by its citizens. Addressing the root causes of migration, such as political instability, economic hardships, and social inequalities, governments can help create an environment where individuals feel safe and empowered to build their lives at home.
As the search-and-rescue operation continues, there remains a glimmer of hope that additional survivors may be found amidst the vast expanse of the Mediterranean.
