Libya coast guard fires on migrant rescue ship

A humanitarian group’s vessel was fired upon by Libya’s coast guard in the Mediterranean Sea, according to a statement released by the nonprofit organization SOS Méditerranée on Monday. The incident occurred on Sunday, about 40 nautical miles north of the Libyan coast, while the group’s ship, the Ocean Viking, was searching for a migrant boat in distress. The Ocean Viking, chartered by SOS Méditerranée in partnership with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, had earlier rescued 87 people from two migrant boats, many of whom were fleeing war‑torn Sudan.

As the vessel continued its search for a third migrant boat, it was approached by a Libyan patrol vessel in international waters. The Libyan coast guard opened fire on the Ocean Viking for 15 to 20 minutes, causing significant damage to the ship but no casualties. The attack is considered one of the most violent incidents involving a European rescue ship and the Libyan coast guard, which receives training, equipment, and funding from the European Union. The patrol boat used by the Libyan coast guard was a gift from Italy to Libya in 2023, part of the EU’s border‑management support programme.

SOS Méditerranée released details and images of the incident, including video and photos showing two men pointing weapons at the boat and several rounds of gunfire. The group’s search‑and‑rescue coordinator, Angelo Selim, said the Libyan coast guard warned the Ocean Viking over the radio to leave the area or face further violence. The incident has been condemned by Frontex, the EU’s border‑protection agency, which described it as “deeply concerning” and called for a swift, thorough investigation. SOS Méditerranée has also demanded a full inquiry and urged that those responsible be brought to justice.

The Ocean Viking is now en route to Italy with the 87 migrants it rescued before the attack. The episode underscores the risks faced by humanitarian groups operating in the Mediterranean and the need for international authorities to ensure the safety of rescue vessels and the people they aim to help. The EU’s support for the Libyan coast guard has been criticized previously, with many arguing that it has contributed to escalating violence against migrant boats and rescue vessels.