The operation, carried out in response to a distress call, highlights the ongoing challenges and human rights concerns related to irregular migration in the region.

Upon receiving credible information about a group of irregular migrants stranded in life rafts along the coastlines of İzmir and Balıkesir, Turkish Coast Guard units were immediately dispatched to the scene. The Coast Guard's rapid response underscored their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of those in distress at sea.

The migrants, who had been forcefully pushed back into Turkish territorial waters by Greek elements, were skillfully brought ashore by the diligent efforts of the Turkish Coast Guard. This operation not only prevented a potential humanitarian catastrophe but also sheds light on the complex and often perilous journeys that irregular migrants undertake in search of safety and better opportunities.

Following their successful rescue, the irregular migrants were transferred to the capable hands of the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management. The Directorate will carry out necessary procedures to ensure their proper care, documentation, and eventual integration, as part of Türkiye's commitment to handling migration challenges responsibly and in accordance with international norms.

This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing migration dynamics and the need for collaborative efforts among nations to address the root causes of irregular migration, ensure the safety of those in peril, and work towards comprehensive solutions that uphold human dignity and respect for all individuals, regardless of their circumstances.

As the situation continues to evolve, the Turkish Coast Guard remains vigilant in its mission to safeguard lives at sea and uphold its humanitarian obligations, while advocating for greater international cooperation to address the multifaceted issues surrounding irregular migration. (ILKHA)