At least 22 migrants died off Greece's coast on March 27, 2026, after their boat remained stranded at sea for six days, according to Greek authorities and rescue teams. The vessel, carrying people primarily from Syria, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, issued a distress call from international waters near the Peloponnese region before drifting toward Greek shores. Coast Guard vessels located the boat late Friday, but rough weather and the migrants' weakened condition led to multiple fatalities before evacuation.
Survivors reported running out of food and water days earlier, with children and elderly among the deceased. Hellenic Coast Guard teams recovered 22 bodies and rescued approximately 45 others, airlifting some to hospitals in Kalamata. The tragedy unfolded amid rising Mediterranean crossings, with smugglers increasingly using unseaworthy vessels to evade patrols.
Greek officials launched an investigation into potential human trafficking networks, while humanitarian groups criticized EU border policies for inadequate rescue coordination. This incident marks one of the deadliest migrant boat disasters in Greek waters this year, highlighting ongoing dangers faced by those fleeing conflict and poverty.
