The rescue mission took place on Friday and was carried out to aid those attempting to cross into Greek islands.

According to an official statement from the Turkish Coast Guard Command, the boats carrying the 61 migrants had been forcibly pushed back into Turkish territorial waters by Greek Coast Guard forces. The incident has added to the growing tensions between the two neighboring countries regarding the handling of irregular migration.

In response to the escalating number of irregular migrants trying to make the treacherous journey from Türkiye to Greece, the Turkish Coast Guard has ramped up its patrols in the Aegean Sea in recent months. As a result, they have been able to save the lives of thousands of migrants, while also apprehending thousands more who attempt the perilous journey.

The Turkish government has vehemently condemned Greece's alleged practice of pushing back irregular migrants into Turkish waters. The Turkish authorities argue that such actions are not only illegal but also endanger the lives of vulnerable migrants seeking better opportunities across borders.

Following the successful rescue operation, the 61 rescued migrants were taken to the provincial migration office for further processing. This step is part of the standard procedure to assess the individuals' circumstances and provide them with necessary support and assistance.

Türkiye continues to grapple with the challenges posed by irregular migration, and the government remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of those in distress while seeking to address the underlying causes of migration in cooperation with international partners.

The Turkish Coast Guard plays a critical role in safeguarding Türkiye's territorial waters and responding to maritime emergencies. Their mission extends to search and rescue operations, combatting illegal immigration, preventing smuggling, and protecting marine environments. The Coast Guard's dedication to preserving human life and upholding maritime security remains at the forefront of their operations. (ILKHA)