Crete, Greece – December 7, 2025 – The bodies of at least 17 migrants and asylum seekers were recovered from a partially deflated boat off the Greek island of Crete, according to Greek coastguard authorities. Two survivors were also rescued and are in critical condition in hospital.
Details of the Shipwreck
The boat was discovered on Saturday, approximately 26 nautical miles (48 km) southwest of Crete. Greek coastguard officials said all victims were men, and the circumstances of the sinking remain unclear. Autopsies are expected to determine whether dehydration or exposure contributed to the fatalities.
The survivors reported that the vessel became unstable due to bad weather and lacked food, water, and adequate shelter. The boat was partially taking on water at the time of rescue, making survival even more difficult.
Rescue Efforts
The incident was first reported by a Turkish cargo ship, which alerted Greek authorities. The coastguard dispatched two vessels, while the European Union border agency Frontex contributed a boat, an aircraft, and a Super Puma helicopter to assist in rescue operations.
Manolis Frangoulis, mayor of the Cretan port Ierapetra, stated that the boat’s deflation on two sides forced passengers into cramped conditions, worsening the situation. Officials described the victims as young men, highlighting the human toll of migration routes in the Mediterranean.
Migration Routes and Context
Crete has become a key transit point for migrants and asylum seekers attempting to reach European Union territory from Libya. Libya has been destabilized since the 2011 NATO-backed overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi, leaving the country in ongoing conflict.
According to the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR), more than 16,770 asylum seekers have reached Crete since the start of 2025. The Greek government, led by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has in recent months suspended some asylum hearings, particularly targeting migrants arriving from Libya, further complicating safe passage for refugees.
Humanitarian Concerns
The tragedy off Crete underscores the continuing humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean, where migrants often risk perilous journeys on overcrowded or unstable vessels. Experts warn that such incidents are exacerbated by poor weather, lack of rescue infrastructure, and the ongoing instability in North Africa.
Greek authorities continue to investigate the incident and coordinate with EU agencies to improve rescue and safety measures for future migrants attempting the dangerous crossing.
Conclusion
This latest shipwreck off Crete serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by migrants and asylum seekers in the Mediterranean. While rescue efforts saved two lives, the loss of 17 young men highlights the urgent need for coordinated international action to address both migration routes and humanitarian protections.
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