Turkish coast guard rescues stranded migrants denied entry by Greek authorities

These individuals were found in rubber boats near the coastal areas of Izmir in western Türkiye. Following the rescue operation, the migrants were safely transported to the provincial migration office to receive further assistance.

Türkiye has historically played a significant role in migration as a country of origin, transit, and destination due to its favorable location between Europe and Asia. Recent events in the region have led to an increased number of migrants seeking refuge in Türkiye, highlighting the challenges faced by the country.

Currently, Türkiye provides shelter to approximately 4 million refugees and asylum-seekers, with over 3.7 million Syrians receiving temporary protection. This influx of migrants has placed a strain on resources and infrastructure, necessitating substantial efforts from the government and various organizations to effectively address their needs.

The Turkish Coast Guard's dedication to maritime security and the prevention of irregular migration deserves recognition. In 2022, they intercepted a significant number of irregular migrants, totaling 285,027, compared to 162,000 in the previous year.

These proactive measures by the coast guard demonstrate Türkiye's unwavering commitment to border control and the well-being of migrants, even in the face of mounting challenges. (ILKHA)