Crete in the spotlight as migrant tragedy and coast guard drills unfold near Souda Bay; Greece’s largest island, with a long Greek history.
Last year, Crete saw a threefold increase in irregular migration, with about 20,000 arrivals, driven by conflicts in Africa and smuggling from Libya. EU and Greek authorities are increasing surveillance and tightening policies amid ongoing tragedies at sea.
The USS Gerald R. Ford, deployed for nine months, arrived at Souda Bay in Crete for maintenance after supporting operations in the Red Sea and Middle East. The ship experienced a fire and crew issues but remains fully mission capable, according to US military sources.
At least 22 migrants have died after their boat capsized off Libya, with bodies thrown into the sea. Survivors report overcrowding and rough weather. Rescue efforts continue, highlighting ongoing dangers for migrants crossing from North Africa to Europe.
A severe storm, Storm Erminio, has caused widespread flooding and dust storms across Greece, notably turning Crete's sky red. A man died in Nea Makri after being swept by floodwaters. Emergency services responded to hundreds of calls, and travel disruptions occurred on the islands.
Since the start of 2026, at least 990 migrants have died crossing the Mediterranean, with over 460 more than last year. Recent incidents include a boat capsizing off Libya, resulting in at least 80 missing and 32 rescued. Libya remains a key transit point amid ongoing chaos.
The Global Sumud Flotilla, carrying humanitarian aid and activists from numerous countries, has had multiple boats intercepted by the Israeli navy near Crete, hundreds of nautical miles from Gaza. The operation follows prior interceptions and sanctions against flotilla organizers, who say the mission aims to break the blockade on Gaza.
The Global Sumud Flotilla has been intercepted as it attempted to reach Gaza, with organizers saying 70 boats and more than 1,000 participants from around the world are involved. The action follows a similar raid last year and comes amid ongoing Gaza tensions and a fragile ceasefire. Israel has said activists will be removed, while Turkey and Greece condemn the seizure as piracy and call for adherence to humanitarian norms.