Tragic Capsizing: 13 Tunisians Missing After Boat Sinks

In a tragic incident off the Tunisian coast, at least 13 people are reported missing after a migrant boat sank while attempting to reach Italy. The boat departed early on Thursday, according to Mostafa Abdelkebir, head of the Tunisian Observatory for Human Rights.

Two survivors were rescued, with one in critical condition, having spent hours adrift after their vessel capsized. This incident highlights the ongoing risks faced by migrants attempting to cross the perilous central Mediterranean route, known for its dangers.

The situation reflects a broader trend, as departures from Tunisia have sharply declined due to increased maritime controls and a crackdown on migration, largely supported by European funding and technology. Human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, have condemned the EU-Tunisia migration deal, claiming it has exacerbated abuses against migrants. They are urging the EU to reconsider its funding of Tunisian border-control initiatives.

Source: www.thehindu.com