The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has confirmed that 415 migrants were intercepted and returned to Libya between 6 and 12 July 2025, marking another intense week along the Central Mediterranean migration route.
According to IOM data, the interceptions occurred at several key coastal points. On 6 July, 237 migrants were stopped near Sabratha, followed by 49 migrants on 7 July near Tripoli. Another group of 92 migrants was intercepted on 12 July. Additionally, 37 men were returned to Derna on 7 July.
Tragically, the update also reports the recovery of multiple deceased bodies along the route: five near Misrata on 6 July, two near Derna on 8 July, and three more the following day. These incidents underscore the deadly risks facing migrants who attempt the dangerous sea crossing to Europe.
So far in 2025, a total of 12,338 migrants have been intercepted and returned to Libya. This includes 10,653 men, 1,136 women, and 404 children. Another 145 individuals were recorded without specified gender. The IOM also reported 317 deaths and 286 people missing on the Central Mediterranean route since January.
These figures reflect a continued pattern from previous years. In 2024, 21,762 migrants were intercepted and returned to Libya, with 665 deaths and over 1,000 reported missing. In 2023, over 17,000 migrants were intercepted, with nearly 1,000 deaths and 1,536 missing.
Although the IOM does not take part in interception operations, it provides vital support at disembarkation points, including emergency medical care. The agency maintains that Libya is not a safe port for migrants and calls for urgent international action to provide safer migration routes and better protection mechanisms.
