LOC01:58
22:58 GMT
GENEVA, Oct 23 (KUNA) -- The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has expressed its deep sorrow over the tragic loss of life off the coast of Mahdia, Tunisia, where a boat carrying 70 migrants capsized.
The tragedy took place shortly after departing the Tunisian village of (Salakta), resulting in the death of 40 people; nine women, 19 men and 12 children under the age of five.
In a statement issued from Geneva, IOM described this tragedy as one of the deadliest maritime disasters along North Africaآ’s shores this year, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated international efforts to reduce human suffering along the Central Mediterranean route, which it described as the "worldآ’s most dangerous migration route."
According to IOM, nearly 1,000 deaths and disappearances have been recorded along this route since the beginning of the year, while the total number of victims since 2014 has surpassed 25,000. Among them are 30 children who have lost their lives off the Tunisian coast so far this year alone.
The Organization reaffirmed its continued support for countries situated along key migration routes by enhancing search and rescue operations and ensuring the protection of migrants, in addition to promoting efforts aimed at creating safe and regular migration pathways. (end)
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