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A devastating maritime tragedy unfolded off the coast of Yemen, resulting in the loss of at least 49 lives, with 140 individuals still unaccounted for, as reported by the United Nations agency on Tuesday.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) issued a statement revealing that the vessel, carrying a total of 260 migrants, tragically capsized on Monday near Alghareef Point in Yemen's Shabwah governorate. Among the deceased are 31 women and six children, highlighting the vulnerability of women and minors in such perilous journeys.

This ill-fated boat departed from Somalia on Sunday, embarking on a treacherous voyage to Yemen. On board were 115 Somali nationals and 145 Ethiopians, all seeking refuge and opportunities in Yemen, a gateway to the Arabian Peninsula and beyond.Yemen, strategically located across the Gulf of Aden from the African coast, has become a frequent transit point and destination for migrants fleeing conflict, poverty, and instability in the Horn of Africa region.

In response to the catastrophic event, the IOM swiftly deployed two medical teams to provide urgent assistance to survivors. Initial assessments revealed that 63 individuals required immediate medical attention for minor injuries and trauma. Additionally, eight survivors were in critical condition and have been transferred to local hospitals for further specialized care.Despite logistical challenges exacerbated by a shortage of operational patrol boats, search and rescue operations are ongoing to locate the 140 individuals still missing. The difficult maritime conditions and vast expanse of the Gulf of Aden continue to pose challenges to these efforts.

This tragic incident underscores the extreme risks and hardships faced by migrants undertaking perilous sea journeys in search of safety and better livelihoods. It also highlights the urgent need for enhanced international cooperation and support to ensure maritime safety and protect the rights of vulnerable migrants.

The international community must address the root causes of irregular migration, including poverty, conflict, and lack of opportunities, to prevent such tragedies from recurring. Efforts should focus on promoting safe and legal migration pathways, strengthening humanitarian responses, and combating human trafficking and smuggling networks that exploit vulnerable populations.

The devastating capsizing off Yemen's coast serves as a stark reminder of the human toll of irregular migration and the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting millions worldwide. As global challenges persist, solidarity and concerted action are essential to safeguarding human lives and upholding international commitments to protect the most vulnerable among us.