A migrant boat capsized south of the Greek island of Crete, resulting in the deaths of at least three people, according to a report by the Greek broadcaster ERT, citing the coastguard. The incident occurred when the vessel, which was severely overloaded, overturned in the open sea. A rescue operation was promptly launched, involving coastguard vessels, an air force helicopter, and a boat from the EU border protection agency Frontex.
As of the latest update, 56 people have been rescued, and efforts to locate any additional passengers are ongoing. The survivors, who claimed to have set sail from the Libyan port city of Tobruk, are being taken to Crete to receive medical attention. A video published by ERT showed the dramatic moments leading up to the capsizing, with the sounds of desperate cries for help audible before the footage cut off.
The incident highlights the growing concerns surrounding migrant arrivals in Greece. According to the UN Refugee Agency, nearly 16,000 migrants have arrived in Crete since the start of 2025, representing a 300% increase compared to the same period last year. The Greek government has been calling for a more equitable distribution of the refugee burden within the European Union.
The rescue operation underscores the importance of coordinated efforts to address the migrant crisis. The Greek coastguard, along with EU agencies, has been working to respond to the increasing number of migrant arrivals. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for continued support and cooperation to ensure the safety and well-being of those seeking refuge.
The situation is being closely monitored, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available. The Greek government’s appeal for a fairer distribution of the refugee burden is likely to remain a pressing issue, with the EU facing ongoing challenges in addressing the migrant crisis. As the situation continues to unfold, international attention will remain focused on the efforts to respond to the needs of migrants and refugees.