The EU is committed to saving lives at sea in line with international maritime law and no rescuer should be put in danger while carrying out life-saving work.
Following the reported incidents, the EU immediately raised the matter with the Libyan authorities, urging them to take all necessary measures to ensure full compliance with their national and international obligations.
The Libyan authorities informed that they have opened an investigation into the incident, which they indicate took place within the Libyan search and rescue zone.
The most recent technical dialogue with the Libyan authorities, held on 15 October 2025 in Brussels, provided a timely opportunity to raise the EU's concerns regarding the reported incidents and to reiterate the need for thorough investigations and stronger monitoring mechanisms, to ensure that Libya's search and rescue operations are fully consistent with international human-rights and maritime law.
The Commission remains convinced that progress, including in the protection of migrants, can only be achieved through continued engagement, in line with the EU's overall policy approach towards the southern neighbourhood region.