Libyan authorities have rescued 79 migrants from Egypt, Sudan, and Bangladesh off the coast of Tobruk in eastern Libya after their boat was found struggling in the Mediterranean Sea, according to the Al-Abireen Foundation for Migrant Assistance and Humanitarian Services.
In a statement, the organization said the migrants were traveling aboard a dilapidated and overcrowded boat when they were intercepted approximately five nautical miles off the coast of Tobruk. The rescue operation was carried out during a maritime patrol in the area.
The foundation also reported that the body of one individual was recovered from a beach west of Tobruk in a separate incident, highlighting the ongoing dangers faced by migrants attempting irregular crossings from Libya’s coastline.
Rescue Operation Conducted by Special Forces
According to the statement, the rescue and interception operation was conducted by Libya’s Special Forces (Al-Saiqa). The migrants were safely taken aboard and transported toward the naval base in Tobruk, where they are expected to disembark.
Officials confirmed that all rescued migrants were in stable health condition at the time of the operation.
Rescue teams worked to secure the migrants and ensure their safe transfer to the designated landing point within the Tobruk naval base.
Humanitarian Assistance Awaiting the Migrants
Members of the Al-Abireen Foundation said their teams are preparing to receive the migrants upon arrival at the base in order to provide urgent humanitarian assistance, including food supplies, drinking water, and basic medical services.
Humanitarian organizations operating in eastern Libya frequently coordinate with security authorities to deliver emergency support to migrants rescued at sea or intercepted along the coast.
Ongoing Migration Risks in the Mediterranean
Libya remains one of the main departure points for migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean toward Europe. Many journeys are carried out using unsafe boats operated by smuggling networks, exposing migrants to life-threatening conditions at sea.
International organizations have repeatedly warned about the dangers of irregular migration routes across the Mediterranean, which continue to claim lives every year.
Rescue operations such as the one off Tobruk are part of broader efforts by Libyan authorities and humanitarian groups to respond to migrant incidents along the country’s eastern coastline.
