Draft legislation to implement these changes will soon be introduced to the parliament, with migration minister Thanos Plevris declaring, "stay where you are, we do not accept you." The southern islands of Crete and Gavdos have recently experienced an influx of over 2,000 migrants, with 520 more rescued off the coast just on Wednesday. In total, since the start of 2025, 9,000 migrants have arrived, putting immense strain on local authorities.
Local officials have described the influx as "suffocating," noting that the rapid arrivals have overwhelmed existing accommodation and resources, resulting in several hundred people being temporarily housed in unsuitable conditions. The government is reportedly facing challenges in redistributing migrants due to seasonal tourism, which limits transportation options.
In parallel efforts, Greek, Italian, and Maltese ministers attempted to travel to Libya to address the surge in migrant departures. However, their trip was thwarted by local authorities who accused them of infringing on Libyan sovereignty. Despite this setback, Mitsotakis indicated that the Greek military stood ready to support Libyan officials in efforts to prevent migrant departures.
NGOs and human rights organizations have condemned European governments' cooperation with Libyan authorities, highlighting the dire treatment migrants experience in detention facilities when intercepted. Amnesty International has criticized the measures aimed at halting departures, arguing they disregard the dignity and rights of migrants.
Local officials have described the influx as "suffocating," noting that the rapid arrivals have overwhelmed existing accommodation and resources, resulting in several hundred people being temporarily housed in unsuitable conditions. The government is reportedly facing challenges in redistributing migrants due to seasonal tourism, which limits transportation options.
In parallel efforts, Greek, Italian, and Maltese ministers attempted to travel to Libya to address the surge in migrant departures. However, their trip was thwarted by local authorities who accused them of infringing on Libyan sovereignty. Despite this setback, Mitsotakis indicated that the Greek military stood ready to support Libyan officials in efforts to prevent migrant departures.
NGOs and human rights organizations have condemned European governments' cooperation with Libyan authorities, highlighting the dire treatment migrants experience in detention facilities when intercepted. Amnesty International has criticized the measures aimed at halting departures, arguing they disregard the dignity and rights of migrants.
