IOM in the news for frontline migration crises: shipwrecks, expulsions, and displacement. A UN-linked body that rescues, shelters, and coordinates, ongoing since 1951.
The Iran-Turkey border is facing increased strain as war-related flows prompt emergence plans in Turkey. Iranians are crossing into Turkey amid limited movement restrictions, with Ankara preparing buffer zones and tent camps while authorities pursue investigations into a fatal incident near Demre. Analysts warn of potential refugee movements if fighting broadens.
As of March 13, 2026, intense fighting continues along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border following Pakistani airstrikes on Afghan territory starting February 26. Both sides report heavy casualties and territorial gains amid ongoing military operations. The conflict has displaced over 115,000 people, with civilian deaths reported on both sides. International calls for restraint remain unheeded, and no ceasefire negotiations are underway.
More than 3.2 million people are displaced inside Iran amid US-Israel attacks. Neighboring states brace for potential refugee influx, with Iran's border regions and major cities experiencing heightened security concerns and disruption to civilian life.
A shipwreck near Djibouti on March 24 resulted in at least nine deaths and 45 missing. The vessel, carrying over 300 migrants from Africa, sank during a perilous crossing of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. This marks the first major incident this year, continuing a pattern of deadly migration tragedies in the region.
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.
Costa Rica has signed a non-binding agreement with the US to accept third-party deportees, part of a broader effort by the US to relocate migrants to countries in Africa and the Americas. The deal allows Costa Rica to accept or reject transfers, with concerns over migrant safety and human rights criticisms. The agreement follows previous controversial deportations and aims to facilitate US immigration enforcement.
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.
Over 1.2 million Lebanese have been displaced since early March due to intensified Israeli strikes and military operations. The UN warns of a severe humanitarian crisis, with shelters overwhelmed and limited aid funding. Israel aims to occupy southern Lebanon, further complicating the situation.
Since early April 2026, the US has begun deporting migrants to third countries including Costa Rica, Congo, and Uganda under new agreements. These deals, funded by the US, allow deportations of migrants whose home countries refuse them. The arrangements face criticism over legality, human rights, and the involvement of repressive governments, with legal challenges underway in Uganda.
A boat carrying over 100 migrants from Libya capsized in the Mediterranean, resulting in 2 deaths and 70 missing. Only 32 survivors were rescued by passing ships, highlighting ongoing dangers faced by migrants crossing to Europe. The incident underscores the impact of restrictive migration policies.
Since early 2026, over 2,800 Rohingya refugees have risked dangerous sea crossings from Bangladesh and Myanmar to Malaysia and Indonesia. A fishing trawler carrying about 250 people capsized in the Andaman Sea in April, with nine survivors rescued and hundreds feared dead. Reduced humanitarian aid and ongoing conflict are worsening conditions in refugee camps, pushing more to attempt perilous journeys.
Todd Lyons has announced he will step down as acting ICE chief on May 31, transitioning to the private sector. His departure follows criticism of ICE's enforcement practices, including fatal shootings and allegations of misconduct. Lyons has led efforts to arrest and remove migrants amid heightened immigration enforcement.
The US has been sending migrants from Latin America to Congo under third-country agreements. The first groups have arrived in Kinshasa, with the US covering logistics. Critics raise concerns over legality, human rights, and the stability of destination countries.
A migrant boat leaving Tobruk has capsized in the eastern Libyan Mediterranean, with at least seven survivors and nine missing. The UN IOM notes survivors were at sea for days and some migrants died of hunger and thirst. Rescue efforts involve Libyan navy, coast guard, and Red Crescent amid continuing migrant crossings from Libya to Europe.
The UN’s International Organization for Migration reports that around 7,900 people have died or gone missing on migration routes in 2025, a decrease from 2024. The figures highlight ongoing risks, with many cases remaining unverified due to aid cuts. The data shows shifting routes driven by conflict, climate, and policy changes, with high dangers persisting across regions.
Reports have documented third-country deportations of migrants from the US to African nations, with multiple countries like Congo, Uganda and Cameroon hosting deportees. New flight arrangements and legal challenges are prompting scrutiny over due process and the role of IOM in confinement and decision-making.
Hundreds have protested around UNHCR in Tripoli, amid accusations Libyans want migrants to leave. Protests have escalated recently, with UN agencies warning against misinformation and vandalism. UNHCR says it does not run a resettlement program in Libya and seeks solutions outside the country.
Migrant deportations under third-country deals have expanded to Africa, with Congo and Equatorial Guinea figures drawing lawsuits and rights scrutiny. Courts have weighed legality and protections for migrants who were shielded from repatriation by U.S. courts, while U.N. agencies assist some voluntary returns. The latest developments show ongoing tensions between policy aims and humanitarian protections.