IOM saddened by boat capsize off Surman coast, Libya

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is deeply saddened by the tragic incident off the coast of Surman, Libya, earlier today. A wooden vessel that departed from Al Zawiya capsized only a few hours into its journey due to high waves. A total of 64 people were rescued and brought safely to shore, while 18 lives were tragically lost.

Among the survivors are 29 Sudanese men, one Sudanese woman, and one Sudanese child; 18 Bangladeshi men; 12 Pakistani men; and three Somali men. Information on the nationalities of the deceased is not available at this stage.

This latest shipwreck is a stark reminder of the grave dangers faced by people undertaking perilous sea journeys in search of safety and opportunity. The Central Mediterranean route remains one of the world’s deadliest migration corridors, with 1,046 deaths and disappearances recorded by IOM’s Missing Migrants Project since the beginning of 2025, 527 of which occurred off the coast of Libya.

IOM is working with local partners to ensure survivors receive health assistance, mental health psychosocial support, and access to essential services. The Organization reiterates its call to strengthen regional cooperation, expand safe and regular migration pathways, and guarantee timely and coordinated search and rescue operations that save lives.

IOM extends its deepest condolences to the families and communities mourning this devastating loss. The memory of those who perished must serve as a call for urgent action to prevent further tragedies at sea.