Two Dead, Dozens Missing After Migrant Boat Sinks in Mediterranean

At least two people have died and more than 70 others remain missing after a migrant boat capsized in the central Mediterranean Sea, according to humanitarian organisations involved in rescue efforts.

The vessel, which departed from Libya on Saturday carrying around 105 people, overturned in waters within a search-and-rescue zone overseen by Libyan authorities.

NGOs including Mediterranea Saving Humans and Sea-Watch reported that 32 people were rescued, while two bodies were recovered following the incident.

Rescue operations were carried out with the assistance of commercial ships, which transported survivors to the Italian island of Lampedusa, a major entry point for migrants attempting to reach Europe from North Africa.

Footage shared by rescue groups showed survivors clinging to the overturned vessel before being pulled to safety.

Humanitarian organisations have criticised European migration policies, arguing that the lack of safe and legal routes forces migrants into dangerous sea crossings.

The latest tragedy adds to a rising toll in the Mediterranean. According to the International Organization for Migration, at least 683 migrants have died or gone missing while attempting the crossing so far in 2026.

Italian authorities report that more than 6,000 migrants have reached the country since the start of the year, highlighting the continued scale of migration flows despite ongoing risks.

Search efforts are ongoing as fears grow for those still unaccounted for.