News 23 February 2026 30 Migrants Dead or Missing off Greece in Latest Tragedy in the Mediterranean

Geneva, 23 February 2026 - At least 30 migrants are feared dead or missing after their boat capsized off the coast of Greece in severe weather on Saturday while attempting to reach the country, an IOM spokesperson said. Twenty people were rescued, including four minors.

The vessel had departed from Tobruk, Libya, on 19 February and overturned about 20 nautical miles south of Kali Limenes, Crete. Survivors include 16 men and four minors. Authorities recovered the bodies of three men and one woman.

Just two months into 2026, at least 606 migrants have already been reported dead or missing along the Mediterranean route, according to IOM's Missing Migrants Project. This marks the deadliest start to a year in the Mediterranean since IOM began recording such data in 2014.

IOM mourns the loss of life in yet another deadly incident in the Mediterranean. The Organization is calling for increased search and rescue efforts in the Central Mediterranean to save lives and ensure safe disembarkation, as well as for stronger regional cooperation.

IOM warns that trafficking and smuggling networks continue to exploit migrants along the Central Mediterranean route, profiting from dangerous crossings in unseaworthy boats while exposing people to severe abuse and protection risks.

Stronger international cooperation and protection-centred responses are key to tackling these criminal networks and expanding safe and regular pathways to reduce risks and save lives.

For more information, please visit IOM's Media Centre.