In brief
A tragic incident near the port of Mahdia in Tunisia resulted in the drowning of 40 migrants, mostly from sub-Saharan Africa, while attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea. As authorities question how the disaster unfolded, the incident reflects the ongoing struggles faced by many fleeing conflict and poverty in search of better opportunities in Europe. With an alarming rise in such maritime tragedies, the humanitarian crisis continues to pose significant challenges for the region.
At least 40 migrants, including children, have died after their boat sank off the coast of Tunisia, in one of the deadliest maritime disasters in the region this year, authorities say.
The boat sank off the Mediterranean port of Mahdia in central Tunisia while carrying about 70 migrants, an official said.
All the people on board were from sub-Saharan Africa, the official added, without providing further details.
This is the latest disaster to hit migrants trying to cross the Mediterranean from Africa to Europe.
Over 210,000 people tried to cross the Central Mediterranean in 2023, according to data shared by the UN.
More than 60,000 were intercepted and sent back to African shores, while nearly 2,000 lost their lives at sea.
About 30 migrants were rescued in the latest disaster which occurred on Wednesday. Tunisian authorities have opened an investigation into the causes and circumstances surrounding the boat's sinking.
The country is facing growing pressure to manage migrants fleeing conflict and poverty in search of better opportunities in Europe.
The sea migration route between Africa and Europe is one of the most dangerous in the world.
In 2023, the European Union (EU) signed a deal with Tunisia to tackle irregular migration. The deal includes $118m (£90m) to stop smuggling, strengthen borders and return migrants.
