At least 606 migrants have been reported dead or missing in the Mediterranean Sea so far in 2026, according to a UN agency. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) said this represents the deadliest start to a year in the Mediterranean on record and has called for greater efforts to save lives at sea.

It comes as an IOM spokesperson on Monday said 30 or more migrants were feared dead or missing off the coast of Greece after the boat they were travelling on capsized during bad weather. The vessel overturned around 20 miles off the port of Kali Limenes, the southernmost point of Crete, on Saturday. 22 people, including four minors, were rescued but the bodies of three men and one woman were recovered by authorities.

A coast guard spokesperson told the AP news agency on Monday that passing ships are continuing to search the waters for more survivors or victims.

The boat carrying the migrants left the Libyan port city of Tobruk, around 170 nautical miles away, on Thursday.

Around 50 migrants were on board the vessel which was travelling to Greece.

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In a statement, the IOM said it “mourns the loss of life in yet another deadly incident in the Mediterranean” and called for improved international efforts to save lives.

It said: “The Organisation is calling for increased search and rescue efforts in the Central Mediterranean to save lives and ensure safe disembarkation, as well as for stronger regional cooperation.

“IOM warns that trafficking and smuggling networks continue to exploit migrants along the Central Mediterranean route, profiting from dangerous crossings in unseaworthy boats while exposing people to severe abuse and protection risks.

“Stronger international cooperation and protection-centred responses are key to tackling these criminal networks and expanding safe and regular pathways to reduce risks and save lives.“