At least 410 migrants were intercepted and returned to Libya between 11 and 17 May 2025, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
The interceptions occurred off the Libyan coast in two operations. Among them were women and children, continuing a pattern of perilous migration attempts across the Central Mediterranean.
These new figures bring the total number of migrants intercepted and returned to Libya so far in 2025 to 8,665.
The IOM reports that this includes 7,369 men, 895 women, and 296 children. An additional 105 individuals were recorded without identified gender.
The Central Mediterranean remains one of the world’s most dangerous migration routes, with growing concern over the risks faced by migrants trying to reach Europe from North Africa.
As of late April, at least 127 people were reported dead and 180 missing along this route in 2025 alone. These numbers are likely to rise as more migrants attempt crossings in the summer months, which typically see a spike in departures due to calmer sea conditions.
While the IOM is not involved in rescue or interception operations, it provides assistance at disembarkation points, including emergency medical care, food, and other basic services.
The organization maintains that Libya is not a safe port for migrants, citing ongoing concerns about arbitrary detention, abuse, and human trafficking.
Despite repeated warnings from international human rights groups, Libya remains a key departure point for migrants hoping to reach Europe. In 2024, a total of 21,762 migrants were returned to Libya, while 665 people died and over 1,000 were reported missing. The year before that, 17,190 migrants were returned, with 962 deaths and 1,536 missing.
The continued interceptions and rising human cost underline the need for urgent international action to address the drivers of migration, expand legal pathways, and ensure the protection and dignity of those on the move.
