The death of 139 migrants in a heartbreaking incident once again illustrated the significant dangers of migration routes. The boat carrying 305 passengers capsized on the night of October 8 (17 Mehr) near the Guhere area in northern Obock, the port city of Djibouti. This tragic event claimed many lives, while 82 others miraculously survived the disaster.
Rescue Efforts and the Scale of the Tragedy
The International Organization for Migration, in a statement, referred to the remarks of survivors and said: "Our teams are on-site alongside local authorities to provide emergency assistance." Alexander Kuisak, the head of the organization's office in Djibouti, added: "This tragedy is a bitter reminder of the dangers migrants face in search of economic opportunities along this migration route."
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Images released from the shore show worn sandals and shoes that the sea waves have washed ashore. Djibouti officials continue search and rescue operations and provide medical services to survivors.
Migration Factors and Humanitarian Crises
Migrants are heading to Yemen in hopes of reaching wealthier countries in the Gulf region. Meanwhile, Yemeni citizens are also fleeing their country due to war and conflict. Yemen, after a UN-mediated ceasefire in 2022, is now witnessing the most severe escalation of clashes between government forces and Houthis. Despite the dangers and violence, migrants continue their perilous journeys.
Conflicts in Ethiopia have also impacted the living conditions of migrants. Since last month, clashes in Ethiopia have intensified, affecting the daily lives of people. An official from the International Organization for Migration noted that the agency has recorded extensive movement along the so-called "Eastern Route" through Djibouti in recent years.
Despite serious dangers on this route, including maritime incidents and human trafficking, the number of migrants undertaking journeys along this path continues to rise. Statistics indicate that in 2025, over 900 migrants lost their lives or went missing on this route.
Concerns Over Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen and Ethiopia
The International Organization for Migration has described the crisis resulting from the conflicts in Yemen as alarming, stating that the number of displaced persons has increased from 76,000 to 200,000. Additionally, over 3,700 people have fled from Yemen to Djibouti. This situation has heightened concerns about the potential return of full-scale war in Ethiopia.
Given the difficult living conditions and conflicts, many Ethiopian migrants have left their country due to drought and forced conscription by armed forces. This situation reflects the humanitarian dimensions of the disaster facing migrants.
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