😢 A tragic shipwreck off the southern Italian island of Lampedusa has left at least 20 migrants dead, local media and the U.N.'s refugee agency, UNHCR, reported on Wednesday.
Rescue teams have pulled 20 bodies from the sea so far, and they're still searching for the missing. Around 70-80 people are believed to have survived the capsizing, which took place in international waters near Lampedusa's shores.
Filippo Ungaro from UNHCR expressed 'deep anguish' over the disaster on social media, noting more migrants could still be unaccounted for. UNHCR is now on the ground, assisting survivors with medical aid, food, and shelter.
Lampedusa, often called the 'Gate of Europe,' sits closer to North Africa than to mainland Italy. The island has become a lifeline—and a last stop—for thousands fleeing conflict, poverty, and instability in search of a safer future.
For many, the journey to Europe by sea remains perilous. Small, overcrowded boats, unpredictable weather, and long distances make every trip a high-stakes gamble. This latest tragedy is a stark reminder of the risks migrants face.
Charities, volunteers, and local authorities are working around the clock to rescue survivors and recover the missing. The international community is being called on to step up support for safer migration routes and humanitarian aid.
As the search continues, voices around the world are raising awareness of the human toll behind the headlines. In today's digital age, a hashtag can mobilize millions. 🚢 #Lampedusa
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At least 20 migrants reported dead in shipwreck off Italy's Lampedusa
cgtn.com
