One dead, 186 missing after boats sink off Yemen, Djibouti

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has confirmed that 186 people are missing following the capsizing of four migrant boats off the coasts of Yemen and Djibouti. The incident occurred on Thursday night, adding to the rising toll of lives lost along this perilous migration route.

According to IOM, the Eastern Horn of Africa-Yemen migration route has already claimed 558 lives in 2024, underscoring the urgent need for action to enhance migrant safety and prevent further tragedies.

The affected route is frequently used by migrants from Ethiopia and other Horn of Africa countries seeking better economic opportunities in Gulf nations or fleeing conflict. However, the journey remains extremely dangerous due to overcrowded boats, harsh sea conditions, and exploitation by smugglers.

IOM has called for immediate measures to safeguard migrants and improve monitoring of migration routes to prevent further loss of life. Authorities in the region continue their search and rescue operations, though the chances of survival decrease with time.

This latest tragedy highlights the ongoing risks faced by migrants and the pressing need for international cooperation to address the root causes of irregular migration and strengthen protection mechanisms.