Greece has decided to strengthen its coast guard, with a special focus on the island of Crete, due to the increase in migratory movements from Libya.
The sea route that starts from the Libyan port city of Tobruk, about 300 kilometers from Crete, is increasingly used by migrant smugglers, who often leave people at sea without supplies and navigational equipment, causing frequent accidents.
According to official figures, in 2025 alone some 20,000 migrants arrived in Crete, a popular tourist destination, turning the island into a hotspot for managing the migration crisis.
The Greek Minister for Maritime and Island Policy, Vassilis Kikilias, announced that four aircraft and two drones will be procured to be deployed in the maritime area south of Crete.
He described the island as a “top priority” for the Greek government, stressing the importance of increasing surveillance and intervention capacities.
The new measures aim to increase safety and prevent tragedies at sea, while giving Crete a central role in the national strategy for managing migratory flows.
