Tunisian coastguard on Thursday announced the retrieval of 13 bodies of sub-Saharan African migrants and the successful rescue of 25 individuals after their boat capsized while heading towards Italy.
The coastguard reported that the tragic incident took place near the city of Sfax; however, they did not disclose the distance from the shore where the boat sank.
Tunisia is currently grappling with an unparalleled migration crisis, as it has emerged as the primary departure point in the region for individuals seeking refuge from poverty and conflict in Africa and the Middle East.
This shift has occurred, supplanting Libya, as people embark on perilous journeys in search of a better life in Europe.
Tunisia is facing mounting pressure from European nations to halt the significant influx of people leaving from its shores. However, President Kais Saied has made it clear that Tunisia will not assume the role of a border guard in this matter.