The International Organization for Migration (IOM) revealed in its latest weekly update for Libya, covering the period from February 1st to 7th, 2026, that illegal migration flows across the Mediterranean are accompanied by severe humanitarian risks. The organization reported that Libyan rescue teams have intercepted and returned a total of 781 migrants to Libyan shores since the beginning of the current year, noting that this toll includes 666 men, 86 women, and 29 children. Meanwhile, the report documented a humanitarian tragedy represented by the loss or death of 56 individuals along the central sea route.
IOM Reports Interception and Return of 753 Migrants to Libya in One Week
Detailing the weekly operations, Zawiya witnessed the highest number of interception operations; on February 3rd, 244 migrants were returned, followed by 36 others on February 6th, and then 20 more migrants on the seventh day of the same month. For its part, Tripoli saw the interception of 90 migrants on February 6th, with 53 missing persons recorded in a separate incident, while rescue teams in Tobruk registered the interception of 45 migrants on February 4th. These numbers continue the notable activity in January, during which Zawiya recorded the peak of crossing attempts, bringing the cumulative number of returned migrants at the beginning of the month to 53 individuals, before the rate rose with the start of February.
International Organization for Migration: 55 Migrants Intercepted and Returned After Launching from Zawiya
The IOM emphasized in its report its steadfast position that Libya is not classified as a “safe port” for disembarking migrants, stressing that these figures are preliminary estimates subject to updates based on new information. To show historical context, the organization compared these numbers with previous years, where 27,116 migrants were intercepted and returned in 2025 with 1,314 deaths or disappearances recorded, compared to 21,762 migrants in 2024 with 1,699 deaths or disappearances. The organization concluded its report by appealing to the international community to enhance efforts to protect migrants and reduce the deadly risks in the Mediterranean.