Four migrant boats sank off the coasts of Yemen and Djibouti late Thursday, leaving over 180 people missing and at least one dead, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
The vessels, carrying primarily Ethiopian migrants seeking work in Gulf countries or escaping conflict, capsized along a perilous route increasingly used for migration.
Two boats, carrying approximately 180 people, vanished off Yemen’s coast. IOM’s country chief of mission, Abdusattor Esoev, expressed grave concern, stating that 186 people are feared to have perished.
The majority of the passengers were believed to be Ethiopian, including at least 57 women, with some Yemeni crew members. Rescue efforts are underway, but hopes of finding survivors are dwindling.
The other two boats capsized off Djibouti due to strong winds. While one or two lives were reportedly lost, the remaining passengers were rescued. IOM colleagues in Djibouti are providing assistance to the survivors.
The number of migrants attempting this dangerous journey from Ethiopia and Djibouti continues to rise, with many originating from Ethiopia’s Tigray region, which was devastated by conflict.
The “eastern route” is considered one of the world’s most dangerous migrant paths. IOM data reveals a 13 percent increase in migrant arrivals in Yemen in 2024, with women and girls representing a significant portion of the travelers.
Economic hardship is the primary driver for these journeys. The IOM reports that 2024 has seen over 558 deaths on this route, with shipwrecks often caused by unseaworthy boats, overcrowding, and poor maritime conditions