On Sunday, the Red Crescent said that nine refugees trying to reach Europe have drowned off Libya and hundreds more been rescued amid fears of an increase in crossing attempts as the route from Turkey closes.
Libyan Red Crescent spokesman Malek Mersit said that the nine who died were among several hundred refugees who were discovered aboard on dilapidated boats off the port of Zawiya, west of Tripoli. The navy of a Tripoli administration said that 586 refugees were rescued.
