At least 18 migrants killed as inflatable boat sinks south of Greek island of Crete; 2 rescued

At slightest 18 migrants attempting to transverse the Mediterranean Sea successful an inflatable vessel died erstwhile it capsized southbound of the land of Crete, Greek authorities said connected Saturday (December 6, 2025).

The half-sunken vessel was located connected Saturday by a passing Turkish merchant vessel, authorities said. Two survivors were rescued and a rescue cognition to find much was ongoing.

Greece is simply a large introduction constituent into the European Union for radical fleeing struggle and poorness successful the Middle East, Africa and Asia, and fatal accidents are a communal occurrence. The abbreviated but perilous travel from Turkey's seashore to adjacent Greek islands successful inflatable dinghies oregon tiny boats, often successful mediocre conditions, utilized to beryllium the large way until accrued patrols and alleged pushbacks reduced crossing attempts. In caller months, arrivals from Libya to Crete person surged.

Authorities person not yet determined wherever the vessel came from.

A vessel and a level from the European borderline bureau Frontex, a Greek Coast Guard chopper and 3 merchant vessels are taking portion successful the hunt operation.