Greek authorities assert that the recent increase in migrants is connected to conflicts in the Middle East

Image: Jihad Watch

ATHENS, Greece (AP) — Greek authorities reported on Tuesday that 107 migrants were detained in two separate operations near Crete. Officials linked the rise in attempted crossings of the eastern Mediterranean to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

A cargo ship helped rescue 42 male migrants from a distressed boat, which had been abandoned and later broke apart after striking rocks. The coast guard and Ministry of Maritime Affairs officials confirmed the rescue, with survivors stating they had departed from the Libyan port of Tobruk. Two men were arrested on smuggling charges.

In a separate incident, 65 migrants were discovered on Gavdos Island, south of Crete. One man required medical treatment and was transported to a nearby hospital.

Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs Stefanos Gikas informed parliament that authorities have been managing a significant rise in illegal migration since late 2023, attributing the surge to conflicts in the Middle East.

(This Article was originally published by Jihad Watch)