Migrant Boat Capsizes Near Djibouti Killing 139 People
The International Organization for Migration reports 139 migrants died and 84 remain missing after a boat capsized crossing from Djibouti to Yemen.
At least 139 migrants, including 15 children, died after a boat capsized in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait between Thursday night and Friday morning. The vessel was transporting 305 passengers from Djibouti toward Yemen when it overturned near Guhere, north of Obock. While some initial reports cited 109 deaths, the International Organization for Migration confirmed 139 dead and 84 missing.
More than 80 survivors, all Ethiopian nationals, were rescued and are currently receiving healthcare and shelter in Obock. Djiboutian authorities continue search and rescue operations in the area. The disaster occurred as migrants attempted to reach Yemen, a country currently gripped by conflict between Saudi-backed government forces and Iran-backed Houthi rebels that has displaced over 200,000 people.
IOM Director General Amy Pope urged governments and donors to establish safe and legal pathways to prevent further tragedies on the perilous migration corridor, stating that no one enters such vessels unless they believe there is no other safe way.
