A heartbreaking incident occurred off the coast of Djerba, Tunisia, on Monday, as a boat carrying migrants capsized during its attempt to cross the Mediterranean Sea to reach Europe. At least 12 individuals, including three infants, lost their lives in this tragic event, and 10 others are currently reported missing. The vessel was heavily overcrowded, reflecting the desperate circumstances faced by those onboard.
In response to the emergency, the Tunisian coast guard intervened and successfully rescued 29 people from the water. The survivors were among the many who sought to escape their current situations in pursuit of a better life in Europe. The Human Rights Observatory, a local rights organization, reported that all the migrants aboard the ill-fated boat were Tunisians, with the exception of two Moroccans, underscoring the challenging conditions that many in the region are facing.
This incident is a stark reminder of the ongoing and unprecedented migration crisis that Tunisia is experiencing. The country has become a primary departure point for migrants, not only from Tunisia but also from other parts of Africa, as they seek opportunities in Europe. This shift has positioned Tunisia as a critical focal point in the ongoing struggle for migration in the Mediterranean region, surpassing Libya as a key launching pad for those aiming to reach European shores.
