A search and rescue operation is currently underway off the coast of Cyprus after a boat carrying migrants capsized, with reports indicating it left Syria.

As of March 17, 2025, authorities have discovered two survivors and seven bodies from the vessel, which was carrying a total of 21 individuals before it sank.

The first survivor revealed that the boat had departed with 21 people, prompting an expanded search for the remaining missing individuals.

Alarmphone, an NGO, reported that they lost communication with the boat after receiving its last known coordinates, raising fears of potential pushbacks by authorities.

Cypriot officials, including Justice Minister Marios Hartsiotis, have denied claims of pushbacks, asserting that rescue operations are conducted in accordance with international law.

Lieutenant Commander George Economou emphasized the urgency of the search efforts, noting that the chances of finding more survivors decrease with time.

Survivors are currently experiencing psychological distress and hypothermia, and authorities plan to interview them to gather more information about the incident.

The search operation has involved multiple vessels and aircraft, including a National Guard helicopter and thermal cameras, to enhance the chances of locating additional survivors.

Despite a 69% decrease in asylum applications from 2022 to 2024 due to stricter immigration regulations, Cyprus still has the highest number of new asylum seekers per capita in the EU.

This rescue operation is part of a broader trend of increased migration flows to Europe, driven by ongoing regional conflicts and economic instability.

Initial reports suggest the boat may have sunk four days prior to the discovery of the survivors, raising concerns about the well-being of all individuals on board.

The operation highlights ongoing challenges faced by those fleeing their home countries, amidst rising irregular border crossings in the eastern Mediterranean.