DUBAI: At least 76 migrants have lost their lives and dozens remain missing after a boat carrying primarily Ethiopian nationals capsized off the coast of Yemen, marking another tragedy along one of the world’s most dangerous migration routes.
Yemeni security officials confirmed the recovery of 76 bodies and the rescue of 32 survivors in the Gulf of Aden near Abyan province. According to the UN's International Organization for Migration (IOM), the vessel was carrying 157 people. Some survivors have been taken to Aden for treatment and assistance.
The boat was part of a smuggling operation transporting African migrants, mostly Ethiopians, hoping to reach the oil-rich Gulf countries. Despite Yemen’s prolonged civil war since 2014, the country remains a key transit point for irregular migration from the Horn of Africa, especially via the “Eastern Route” from Djibouti across the Red Sea.
IOM officials stated that the fate of the remaining passengers is still unknown. Last year, at least 558 migrants died on this perilous route, mostly due to boat accidents. Just weeks ago, smugglers forced migrants to jump overboard in the Red Sea, resulting in at least eight fatalities.
The boat that sank off Abyan carried mostly Ethiopian migrants, as confirmed by local security forces and the IOM. Recovery efforts are ongoing to locate additional bodies.
Migrants who survive the sea crossing often face dire conditions in war-torn Yemen, including abuse, exploitation, and detention. Many become stranded, with limited access to humanitarian aid. Gulf nations remain a major destination for African and South Asian migrant workers.
