Summary
At least nine people died, and 45 are missing after a boat with more than 300 migrants and refugees sank off the coast of Djibouti. The Djiboutian coastguard and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are involved in rescue and search operations. The boat was traveling one of the world's most dangerous migration routes, and a judicial investigation is underway.
Key Facts
- A boat carrying 320 migrants sank off Djibouti's coast, resulting in at least nine deaths and 45 missing persons.
- The incident occurred near Guehere in Djibouti, late on a Tuesday.
- Rescue teams saved 266 people, all Ethiopian nationals.
- The journey took place along the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, one of the world's most dangerous migration crossings.
- A coastguard investigation is underway to find out what happened.
- Many migrants attempt this route to reach the Gulf states, facing risks like rough seas, strong winds, and dangerous land routes through Yemen.
- IOM data shows that migration on the Eastern Route increased by 18% in 2025.
- In 2025, 922 people died or went missing on this route, the highest number since tracking began.
