Turkish coast guard rescues 116 migrants pushed back by Greek authorities

These migrants were traveling in rubber boats near the coastal areas of Izmir and Aydın in western Turkey. Following their rescue, the migrants were safely transported to the provincial migration office for further assistance.

Türkiye has a long-standing history of being a significant country in terms of migration, serving as a country of origin, transit, and destination for migrants due to its strategic location between Europe and Asia. Recent regional events have heightened the number of migrants seeking refuge in Türkiye, further emphasizing the challenges faced by the country.

Currently, Türkiye is providing a home for approximately 4 million refugees and asylum-seekers, with over 3.7 million Syrians receiving temporary protection. The influx of migrants has put a strain on resources and infrastructure, requiring the government and various organizations to work diligently to address their needs effectively.

The Turkish coast guard's efforts to ensure maritime security and prevent irregular migration have been notable. In 2022, they intercepted a staggering 285,027 irregular migrants, a significant increase compared to the previous year's figure of 162,000. These proactive measures by the coast guard demonstrate Türkiye's commitment to border control and the safety of migrants, even in the face of mounting challenges. (ILKHA)