News|RefugeesEight bodies found in Libya, Greece as Mediterranean death toll risesBodies of five asylum seekers wash ashore in Libya as three others die in a separate incident off the coast of Greece.
Authorities in Libya have recovered the bodies of five asylum seekers found near Tripoli. These individuals washed ashore in the coastal town of Qasr al-Akhyar on Saturday, as reported by local police.
Authorities in Libya have recovered the bodies of five asylum seekers found near Tripoli. These individuals washed ashore in the coastal town of Qasr al-Akhyar on Saturday, as reported by local police.
The bodies, identified as those of dark-skinned individuals, included two women. Residents also reported sightings of a child's body, which was subsequently lost to the sea. Local law enforcement communicated with the Red Crescent for body recovery. The condition of the bodies suggests that more may appear in the coming days.
In a related incident, Greek authorities have confirmed the recovery of three bodies and the rescue of at least 20 people near Crete. This occurred after a wooden boat, carrying migrants and asylum seekers, capsized. The majority of survivors were identified as Egyptians and Sudanese, including four minors. Reports indicate the capsizing resulted from passengers attempting to board a commercial ship's ladders during a rescue operation.
Authorities in Libya have recovered the bodies of five asylum seekers found near Tripoli.
Greek authorities continue to search for survivors using four patrol boats, an aircraft, and two Frontex ships. Survivors reported that approximately 50 individuals were on the wooden boat, with a second boat carrying about 40 migrants also located in the area.
The Mediterranean crossing from Libya to Europe remains perilous, with Libya serving as a transit point since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Recent reports highlight the risks faced by migrants, including violence and exploitation. The UN has advocated for a halt on returning migrant boats to Libya until human rights conditions improve.
Crete, a key entry point to the European Union, saw over 16,770 asylum seekers arrive in 2025. In response to increased arrivals, the Greek government temporarily suspended asylum applications processing during the summer of the same year. According to the UNHCR, 107 individuals were reported dead or missing in Greek waters in 2025.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
