Türkiye rescues 15 irregular migrants in Aegean Sea
Türkiye rescued 15 irregular migrants in the Aegean Sea after Greek authorities pushed them back into Turkish territorial waters, authorities said Sunday.
Coast guard units rescued the migrants from a rubber boat off the Marmaris district of the western Mugla province, the Turkish Coast Guard said in a statement.
Separately, 57 migrants on board a rubber boat were apprehended off the coast of the Bodrum district in Mugla.
Irregular immigrants were taken to local immigration authorities for deportation.
Türkiye and global rights groups have repeatedly condemned Greece’s illegal practice of pushing back asylum seekers, saying it violates humanitarian values and international law by endangering the lives of vulnerable migrants, including women and children.
Tensions between Türkiye and Greece have been high for years, with the two nations’ differing approaches to the ongoing migrant crisis at the forefront. Greece has been accused of violating international law by forcibly returning migrants to Türkiye, a practice known as pushbacks. This latest incident serves to highlight the ongoing issue and adds to the growing strain between the two countries.
The Turkish Coast Guard’s successful rescue mission in the Aegean Sea demonstrates Türkiye’s commitment to upholding humanitarian values and protecting the lives of those in distress. By diligently patrolling its territorial waters, Türkiye ensures that irregular migrants are given the assistance they need, despite the actions of neighboring countries.
Türkiye has consistently condemned Greece’s illegal pushback practices, which not only endanger the lives of vulnerable migrants but also contravene international law. Global rights groups have also joined in criticizing Greece for its actions, emphasizing the importance of treating asylum seekers with compassion and respect.
Irregular migration remains a pressing issue in the Aegean Sea, with many migrants embarking on treacherous journeys in overcrowded and unseaworthy vessels. The Turkish Coast Guard’s prompt response in rescuing the 15 irregular migrants near Marmaris highlights the vital role played by Türkiye in safeguarding human lives and ensuring their safe return to shore.
The rescued migrants were immediately taken to local immigration authorities for deportation, as per existing immigration protocols. While Türkiye continues to bear the burden of accommodating a significant number of refugees, it remains committed to upholding international human rights standards and providing assistance to those seeking a better life.
The EU-Turkey Statement of March 2016 aimed to alleviate the pressure on Türkiye by providing support for migrants and reinforcing the EU’s external border. However, concerns remain that Greece’s pushback actions undermine the principles of this agreement, leaving Türkiye to shoulder the responsibility alone.
As the migrant crisis persists, both Türkiye and Greece must seek effective and humane approaches to address the challenges. Cooperation and respect for international law are essential in safeguarding the lives and well-being of vulnerable individuals seeking refuge.
As the international community closely watches developments in the Aegean Sea, it is critical for the involved parties to adhere to legal and ethical standards, prioritizing the safety and dignity of migrants above all else.
The issue of irregular migration necessitates a global response, with nations working together to find lasting solutions. While Türkiye continues its commitment to protecting vulnerable migrants, it calls on its neighboring countries to uphold humanitarian values and respect the rights of those in need.
