Morocco Rescues 36 in Boat Disaster

A devastating boat accident on its way to Spain has left at least 50 people feared dead, with the majority being Pakistani nationals, according to a migrant rights group. The incident has sparked widespread concern and calls for action from authorities in Pakistan, Morocco, and Spain.

The boat, which set sail from Mauritania on January 2, was carrying 86 migrants, including 66 from Pakistan and 20 from other nationalities. However, only 36 people were rescued by Moroccan authorities in a daring operation on Wednesday. This tragedy is part of a larger wave of migrants attempting to cross the Atlantic to reach the Canary Islands, with 10,457 migrants reported dead or missing in 2024 while trying to reach Spain, mostly along the Atlantic route from West Africa.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed his deep sorrow over the incident and has demanded a report from the relevant authorities. He has also instructed the authorities to take strict action against those involved in human trafficking. Similarly, the regional leader of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, has called on Spain and Europe to take urgent action to prevent further loss of life, stating that the Atlantic cannot continue to be the graveyard of Africa.

The incident has highlighted the need for concerted efforts from authorities to address the issue of human trafficking and prevent such tragedies in the future. The international community is urged to take immediate action to ensure the safety and well-being of migrants attempting to cross the Atlantic, with a focus on providing alternative and safer routes for those seeking a better life in Europe.