These images are of the boat that sank off the Greek coast of Pylos on June 14. It was carrying almost 750 migrants from Syria, Egypt and Pakistan. Only 70 were rescued.
The Greek Coast Guard contacted the boat the day before the wreck, but claim that it did not ask for help. The UN argued that Greek authorities did nothing to prevent an impending tragedy, knowing the ship was overcrowded. Pope Francis expressed his regret at the situation.
FRANCISCO
With great sadness and much sorrow, I think of the victims of the very serious shipwreck
which took place a few days ago off the coast of Greece. And it looks like the sea was calm. I renew my prayer for those who lost their lives and I pray that everything possible may always be done to prevent such tragedies.
The boat sank 50 miles off the coast. And the survivors are being assisted by Doctors Without Borders.
DUCCIO STADERINI
Doctors Without Borders
We have begun to provide mental health support, hear testimonies of people who have lost their entire family or who have lost someone at sea, never to see him or her again. It is clear that these situations require immediate and speedy help.
According to the International Organization for Migration, the route through the Mediterranean Sea is the deadliest in the world.
PA
TR: KG
