Greek authorities have recovered the bodies of two migrants, a man and a woman, who had been missing after their boat sank near the island of Samos in the Aegean Sea, the country’s coastguard announced on Monday.
The boat had been carrying 24 people, 22 of whom were rescued by the coastguard amidst fair weather conditions. The search and rescue operation has now ended, according to officials.
Greece has long been a critical point of entry for migrants attempting to reach Europe, especially during the 2015-2016 migrant crisis when over a million people, predominantly Syrian refugees, made the dangerous crossing from Turkey to Greece’s eastern islands on small, overcrowded boats. Although the number of arrivals declined in the years following, there has been a resurgence in migrant crossings since last year, with many opting for a new southern route via the island of Gavdos.
Despite the calm weather, the Mediterranean continues to be a perilous route for migrants, with frequent reports of boats sinking and lives lost at sea. Greek authorities have stepped up rescue efforts, but the tragedy underscores the ongoing risks faced by those seeking refuge in Europe.
Melissa Enoch
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