A devastating maritime tragedy has unfolded off the coast of Yemen, where at least 68 migrants have died and many more are still missing after a crowded boat capsized near the southern province of Abyan on August 3, 2025. The vessel, which was reportedly carrying between 150 to 200 Ethiopian nationals, sank in rough seas during a dangerous journey from the Horn of Africa.
Only 12 survivors have been rescued so far, as local authorities and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) continue urgent search operations. Strong currents and limited resources are hampering rescue efforts, while the bodies of victims have begun washing ashore—painting a grim picture of the scale of the disaster.
This tragedy sheds light once again on the perils of the Eastern Route, a migratory corridor considered one of the busiest and most dangerous in the world. Migrants often risk their lives on unsafe vessels, overloaded and lacking basic safety measures like life jackets. These voyages are frequently organized by human smugglers exploiting the desperation of people seeking work and stability in Gulf nations.
The IOM has confirmed this incident adds to a rising toll in 2025, with hundreds of deaths and disappearances already recorded along this same route. It has called for immediate global action—urging the expansion of safe and legal migration channels, stronger protection for vulnerable migrants, and accountability for traffickers.
Even amid its own ongoing civil conflict, Yemen remains a central transit hub for migrants fleeing poverty and instability in East Africa. Despite knowing the risks, many continue to gamble their lives in hopes of a better future—turning the Arabian Sea into yet another graveyard for those in search of dignity and opportunity.
