Beyza Binnur Donmez
26 January 2026•Update: 26 January 2026
GENEVA
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) on Monday said it is "deeply" concerned by reports of multiple deadly shipwrecks in the Central Mediterranean in recent days, with preliminary information suggesting that hundreds of people may be missing or feared dead.
IOM said in a statement that several boats may have been involved over the past 10 days, with severe weather significantly hampering search and rescue operations. The incidents occurred during Cyclone Harry, an exceptionally violent Mediterranean storm.
In Lampedusa, Italy, three deaths were confirmed following a rescue operation involving a boat that departed from Sfax, Tunisia. Two twin girls, around one year old, and a man died of hypothermia shortly after arrival, according to the statement.
Survivors reported that another boat departing at the same time never arrived, raising fears of another shipwreck. IOM said it is also verifying information from Malta indicating that at least 50 people may be missing or dead from another wreck.
Separately, at least 51 people are feared dead following a shipwreck off Tobruk, Libya.
IOM urged stronger action against smuggling networks and reinforced search and rescue efforts in the Central Mediterranean.
"These criminal networks bear responsibility for the resulting loss of life and must be held accountable," it added.
The Central Mediterranean remains the "deadliest migration corridor in the world." In 2025 alone, at least 1,340 people have lost their lives on this route, according to IOM.
