A tragic boat accident off the coast of Mahdia, Tunisia, claimed the lives of at least 40 migrants, including children and infants, in one of the deadliest maritime incidents in the Mediterranean this year.

A migrant boat carrying approximately 70 people sank off Tunisia’s central Mahdia region, resulting in the deaths of at least 40 individuals, according to authorities. Survivors reported that all passengers were from Sub-Saharan African countries.

The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, prompted immediate search-and-rescue operations. Rescue teams managed to save 30 people, while the bodies of other passengers were recovered from the sea. The operations are ongoing.

Tunisia’s officials confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the sinking and the boat’s departure point.

This tragedy highlights the continuing risks faced by migrants attempting perilous sea journeys across the Mediterranean. Authorities and humanitarian organizations are calling for increased safety measures and monitoring of maritime routes frequently used by migrants.(ILKHA)