17 Migrants Found Dead Near Crete: What Happened to the Boat.

According to ТСН: The Greek Coast Guard discovered the bodies of 17 migrants from a partially submerged boat near Crete, and also rescued two individuals.

Tragic Situation

This number of victims is the highest since the tragedy involving the fishing trawler 'Adriana' off southern Greece in June 2023, when hundreds of people died.

The cause of the boat's sinking remains unclear.

A representative of the ministry refused to comment on reports from state media that the migrants died from hypothermia rather than drowning—a common cause of death in such accidents. She added that determining the origin of the migrants may be difficult.

Context of Events

The tragedy occurred against the backdrop of Greece strengthening its migration policy. The conservative government of the country postponed the consideration of asylum applications in the summer due to a significant influx of people from Libya to Crete, with 2000 individuals arriving on the island in the first week of July. In September, a law was also passed that provides for prison sentences for asylum seekers who remain in the country after their applications have been rejected.

Greek Migration Minister Thanassis Plevris stated last week that the number of arrivals in Crete via the route from Libya has decreased, but in recent days the figures have started to rise again.

Other Incidents

Additionally, off the coast of the island of Lesbos, a Greek coast guard vessel came under fire from a Turkish fishing boat. The fire was opened by smugglers who were transporting illegal migrants.

These events vividly illustrate the current crisis related to migration in the Mediterranean, where numerous tragedies occur due to dangerous maritime transportation. Greece, as a key country on the migrant route, continues to face challenges associated with international migration, raising questions not only about humanitarian but also legal aspects. After this tragedy, it is important to emphasize the need for an effective strategy that considers the safety of people seeking asylum.