The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that 709 migrants were intercepted at sea and returned to Libya between March 1 and March 7, 2026, according to its latest weekly maritime update on movements along the Central Mediterranean migration route.
The interceptions occurred at multiple points along Libya’s coastline, including areas near Tripoli, Zawiya, Surman, Derna, Tobruk, and Sirte.
The migrants were attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea toward Europe using irregular routes often organized by smuggling networks.
According to IOM data, the group included men, women, and children. The figures reflect the continued pressure on the Central Mediterranean corridor, which remains one of the world’s most active and dangerous migration routes.
The weekly report forms part of broader monitoring by the organization since the start of the year. So far in 2026, a total of 2,568 migrants have been intercepted and returned to Libya.
Among them were 2,264 men, 212 women, and 61 children, while the gender of 31 migrants could not be confirmed.
The IOM also reported that at least 559 people have died or gone missing along the Central Mediterranean route since January 2026. These numbers are based on available reports and may increase as additional incidents are documented.
The organization’s data also provides a comparison with previous years, highlighting the persistent scale of migration attempts from Libya’s shores. In 2025, around 27,116 migrants were intercepted and returned to Libya, while 1,314 people were reported dead or missing on the same route.
In 2024, approximately 21,762 migrants were intercepted and returned, with 1,699 deaths or missing persons recorded.
Libya continues to serve as a primary departure point for migrants and refugees attempting to reach Europe, particularly individuals from sub-Saharan Africa and parts of the Middle East.
