Italian Coast Guard Recovers More Victims from Shipwreck Off Calabria
The Italian coast guard has recovered an additional 14 bodies from the tragic shipwreck in the Ionian Sea off southern Italy, bringing the confirmed death toll to 34. The incident occurred last week when a motorboat carrying migrants caught fire and capsized, leaving dozens still missing and presumed dead.The bodies were retrieved on Friday and transported to a port in Calabria after an extensive air-and-sea search operation conducted by three coast guard ships, approximately 190 kilometers (120 miles) from shore.
According to reports from survivors and the UN refugee agency, the boat departed from Turkey carrying around 75 people from Iran, Syria, and Iraq. Eleven survivors, who were rescued, are currently receiving medical treatment onshore.
The tragedy highlights the perilous conditions faced by migrants attempting to cross the central Mediterranean. This year alone, over 800 people have died or gone missing attempting the crossing, averaging five deaths per day, according to UN agencies.
Humanitarian organizations have sharply criticized European migration policies, citing these deaths as stark evidence of policy failures and the urgent need for improved safety measures for migrants undertaking dangerous journeys.
The search and recovery efforts continue as authorities strive to locate any remaining survivors and provide support to the affected families. The international community remains focused on addressing the root causes of migration and improving conditions for vulnerable populations.
