A total of 564 migrants were intercepted at sea and returned to Libya in a single week this month, according to the latest figures from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). Between 7 and 13 December, maritime operations across Tripoli, Zawiya, and Sorman saw groups of men, women, and young children pulled from the water, with the largest single interception involving 237 people on 11 December.
The new data brings the total number of migrants returned to Libyan shores since the beginning of 2025 to a staggering 26,328. This figure includes 22,853 men, 2,313 women, and 954 children. The IOM also reported that 1,190 individuals have been confirmed dead or missing along the central Mediterranean route during the same period—a crossing widely regarded as one of the deadliest in the world.
The 2025 statistics mark a significant increase in interceptions compared to previous years. In 2024, 21,762 migrants were returned to Libya, while 17,190 were intercepted in 2023. Human rights observers suggest these rising numbers underscore a deepening humanitarian crisis and a persistent lack of comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of illegal migration.
The IOM reiterated its long-standing position that Libya cannot be considered a “safe port” for migrants. The agency further clarified that it does not participate in interceptions or rescue operations, nor does it exercise oversight over the treatment of migrants following their disembarkation. It noted that casualty figures remain conservative estimates and are likely to rise as further information emerges.
