editor
More than 60 migrants have died after the boat they were traveling in capsized off the coast of Yemen due to rough weather on Sunday, in what international organizations have described as a tragic and alarming incident.
According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Yemen, the accident occurred in the southern Yemeni province of Abyan. A total of 68 bodies have been recovered so far, while 12 people survived. Dozens more remain missing.
“The boat was carrying approximately 157 people, most of them Ethiopian nationals attempting to cross the sea toward Gulf countries in search of better opportunities,” said Abdusattor Esoev, the IOM Chief of Mission in Yemen.
Yemen continues to serve as a dangerous yet common migration route for migrants from the Horn of Africa—particularly from Ethiopia and Somalia—who seek to reach Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations for employment.
The IOM stated that this tragedy adds to the growing number of migrants who have died or gone missing in perilous sea crossings in recent months. The organization has called on regional governments and international agencies to step up efforts to protect migrants’ lives and combat human trafficking and smuggling networks.
“This is yet another reminder of the urgent need for safe migration pathways and stronger cooperation to prevent further loss of life,” the agency said.
