Migrant speedboat capsizes off Greek island, eight dead, 18 rescued
The majority of migrants are escaping conflict zones, with Syrians comprising the largest group, followed by Afghans, Egyptians, Eritreans, and Palestinians.
Dec. 20, 2024
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – On Friday, near the eastern Greek island of Rhodes, a speedboat carrying migrants capsized, causing the deaths of eight people and the rescue of 18 others, Greek authorities confirmed.
The Greek coast guard stated that the speedboat had been performing “dangerous maneuvers” in an effort to avoid a patrol vessel, resulting in several passengers being thrown into the sea.
A significant rescue operation was launched, including coast guard vessels and a helicopter.
It remains unclear whether additional passengers are missing, and the search continues.
Rhodes, located near Turkey’s coastline, lies along a heavily trafficked smuggling route in the eastern Mediterranean.
This incident is the second deadly migrant tragedy within a week.
Last weekend, seven migrants died, and dozens remain missing for after a boat partly sank south of Crete.
That disaster prompted four rescue operations, during which more than 200 migrants were saved. However, authorities stated on Wednesday that the search near the tiny island of Gavdos had been called off.
According to Greek government data, the number of migrants arriving in Greece via illegal routes is anticipated to exceed 60,000 this year.
The majority of migrants are escaping conflict zones, with Syrians comprising the largest group, followed by Afghans, Egyptians, Eritreans, and Palestinians.
The latest rise in migrant arrivals is linked to escalating conflicts in the Middle East.
Athens has expressly stated its concerns about handling the influx as Greek authorities brace for further challenges in the region’s already strained humanitarian landscape.
