Egypt Follows Up on Boat Tragedy Involving Egyptian Nationals off Libya’s Tobruk Coast

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Egyptians Abroad is closely following the tragic incident involving the sinking of a boat carrying a number of Egyptian nationals off the coast of Tobruk, Libya.

The Ministry is coordinating with authorities in the sisterly State of Libya to address the situation.

Upon receiving initial information about the incident, the Egyptian Consulate General in Benghazi promptly dispatched a delegation to Tobruk, according to a statement issued by Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The team immediately began coordinating with the relevant Libyan authorities to assess the condition of the Egyptians who were aboard the boat, the statement added.

Efforts led to the identification of several bodies, and the necessary procedures have been initiated to transport them across the land border after confirmation by their families in Egypt.

The consulate continues to coordinate with Libyan counterparts to finalize the transfer of other remains once their identities are confirmed.

At the same time, the consulate is monitoring the conditions of a number of survivors and is preparing for their return to Egypt once ongoing investigations are completed.

In addition, the Ministry reaffirmed its ongoing coordination with the Consulate General in Benghazi to follow up on all matters related to the transfer of the deceased and the swift repatriation of the survivors.

In light of the Egyptian state's strong commitment to protecting its citizens and ensuring their safety, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Migration urges all citizens to refrain from undertaking irregular migration, given its severe risks and the danger of falling prey to human trafficking networks, according to the statement.

Moreover, Egypt reiterated its dedication to continuing efforts to provide safe alternatives and legitimate opportunities for youth, through training and capacity-building programs as well as expanding channels for legal migration in coordination with partner countries.

Furthermore, the Ministry extended its heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims, praying that God grants them mercy and provides their loved ones with patience and solace.