Sat Dec 06 20:30:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
On December 6, 2025, at least 18 migrants died when an inflatable boat capsized in the Mediterranean Sea south of Crete, Greece. A Turkish merchant vessel discovered the half-sunken boat, rescuing two survivors. A search and rescue operation, involving Frontex, the Greek Coast Guard, and merchant vessels, is underway. In recent months there has been a surge of arrivals from Libya to Crete.
News Article:
At Least 18 Migrants Dead After Boat Capsizes Off Crete
Athens, Greece – December 7, 2025 – A tragic incident in the Mediterranean Sea has claimed the lives of at least 18 migrants after their inflatable boat capsized south of the Greek island of Crete on Saturday, December 6, 2025.
Greek authorities reported that a Turkish merchant vessel discovered the half-sunken boat. Two survivors were rescued, and a large-scale search operation is currently underway. The operation involves a ship and plane from the European border agency Frontex, a Greek Coast Guard helicopter, and three merchant vessels.
Greece remains a major entry point into the European Union for migrants fleeing conflict and poverty from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. While the shorter route from Turkey to nearby Greek islands has seen a decrease in crossings due to increased patrols, authorities note a recent surge in migrants attempting the longer, more dangerous journey from Libya to Crete.
The origin of the capsized vessel is currently unknown, and authorities are continuing their search for any additional survivors. This latest incident underscores the ongoing risks faced by migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea in search of safety and a better life.
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