Annual comparisons from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) highlight the ongoing tragedy; in 2025, 27,116 migrants were intercepted, with 1,314 casualties recorded, while 2024 saw the return of 21,762 individuals and the loss of 1,699 others. Given these figures, the IOM reiterated that Libya is not considered a “safe port” for disembarking migrants, clarifying that it does not participate in interception or rescue operations and that its data relies on preliminary estimates updated periodically.
International Organization for Migration: 55 Migrants Intercepted and Returned After Launching from Zawiya
Regarding monthly statistics, the first days of January (between Jan 1 and 3) recorded the interception of 53 people, including women and children. No returns were documented the following week despite monitored departure attempts. By the third week (Jan 18-24), 45 men were intercepted, followed by the final week of the month (Jan 25-31) with the return of another 45 migrants. This brings the total number of migrants intercepted and returned since the beginning of the year to the end of January 2026 to approximately 537 individuals.
Rise in Migration Attempts: 478 People Returned to Libya in One Week
According to data released by the IOM, Al-Zawiya has emerged as the sole departure point for all migrants intercepted at sea and returned to Libyan territory since the start of this year. This geographical concentration reflects the continued reliance on this maritime route, which is classified as one of the most dangerous illegal migration paths in the world.