Hundreds feared missing or dead in Mediterranean shipwrecks, UN says

The UN's migration agency, IOM, reported on Monday that hundreds of migrants are feared missing or dead in the central Mediterranean Sea following multiple shipwrecks in recent days. The IOM is currently verifying reports of several boats involved over the past 10 days, with preliminary information suggesting a high number of casualties. Three shipwrecks were specifically reported on January 23rd and 25th, potentially resulting in at least 104 deaths. Severe weather conditions are significantly hindering search and rescue operations in the area. The IOM expressed deep concern over the situation.

Hundreds of people may have drowned attempting to cross the Mediterranean last week as Cyclone Harry battered southern Italy and Malta. A shipwreck with 50 confirmed deaths was reported by Maltese authorities, while one survivor told of a vessel carrying up to 380 people from Tunisia that had departed on January 20th. The cyclone generated huge waves in the Mediterranean, prompting an investigation into eight vessels launched by people smugglers during the past 10 days. This incident is part of a larger trend, with 66,296 people arriving by boat in Italy in 2025, representing a slight dip from the previous year. The UN's International Organization for Migration has registered at least 25,600 deaths and disappearances among people attempting the crossing since 2014.