Tragedy strikes as four drown in migrant boat capsizing near Greek island
- A boat carrying migrants capsized near the Greek island of Lesbos, leading to the deaths of at least four individuals.
- Among the dead were two children, as confirmed by Greece's coast guard, while 23 people were rescued.
- This incident highlights the ongoing dangers migrants face in their attempts to reach Europe, despite increasing patrols and rescue operations.
In Greece, a tragic incident off the northern coast of the island of Lesbos resulted in the loss of four lives, including two children, after a boat carrying migrants capsized in the Aegean Sea early on Thursday morning. The Greek coast guard confirmed that two women and two children—a boy and a girl—were among those who drowned. While 23 individuals were rescued by the coast guard, the exact number of passengers on board the ill-fated vessel remains unclear. Reports from Turkey's state-run media indicated that five people may have perished, with 25 others rescued by the Turkish coast guard. The circumstances leading to the vessel's overturning are currently unknown, though the weather in the area was reported to be good at the time. This incident highlights the perilous journeys many migrants undertake in search of refuge, often risking their lives in overcrowded and unseaworthy crafts. The Aegean Sea has long been a critical route for those fleeing conflict and poverty from countries across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, with many attempting the short yet dangerous crossing from Turkey to nearby Greek islands such as Lesbos. Greece serves as a primary entry point into the European Union for migrants seeking asylum. The dangers faced during these crossings persist, as many boats lack safety features and are often operated by smuggling rings that frequently shift operations to evade detection. The current Greek government has intensified its patrols in the area, aiming to deter such journeys in light of the growing humanitarian crisis. However, the ongoing conflict in various regions continues to drive people towards these treacherous routes, leading to frequent tragedies at sea. Search and rescue operations were launched immediately following the capsizing, with support from three coast guard vessels, an air force helicopter, and boats in the vicinity. As authorities continue to recover victims and search for potential survivors, the situation underscores the ongoing debates surrounding migration policies and the urgent need for humane solutions to support those fleeing dire circumstances in their home countries.