Türkiye rescues 18 migrants near Izmir, condemns Greece’s pushback practices

Turkish security forces rescued 18 irregular migrants, including eight children, off the coast of Izmir on Saturday after they were pushed back into Turkish waters by Greek authorities.

One suspected human trafficker was detained during the operation.

According to the Turkish Coast Guard Command, a vessel was dispatched near the Seferihisar district following reports of migrants attempting to cross the Aegean Sea in a rubber boat.

Multiple interceptions in Aegean

In a separate operation off the coast of Karaburun, Turkish authorities intercepted a rubber boat carrying 13 migrants, including two children. Another suspected trafficker was taken into custody.

Additionally, 17 more migrants were apprehended on land in the Cesme district.

All rescued migrants were transferred to the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management for further processing.

Türkiye condemns Greece’s pushbacks

Türkiye continues to be a key transit point for asylum seekers aiming to reach Europe, many of whom are fleeing war and persecution.

Ankara, alongside international human rights organizations, has repeatedly condemned Greece’s illegal pushback practices, arguing that they endanger the lives of vulnerable migrants, particularly women and children, in violation of humanitarian and international laws.