A boat carrying hundreds of migrants from Djibouti to Yemen capsized off the coast of Obock, killing at least 139 people and leaving 84 missing, according to the International Organization for Migration. The vessel, which was carrying around 350 people, overturned overnight between October 8 and 9, 2026. Survivors reported the boat was heading toward Yemen as part of a dangerous journey across the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
The International Organization for Migration confirmed the death toll rose to 139, with 15 children among the victims. The IOM also stated that at least 109 migrants died in a separate incident, with 116 others missing. The conflicting figures highlight the challenges in assessing the full scale of the tragedy. Rescue teams continue to search for the missing in the waters near Obock.
This disaster is part of a larger pattern of perilous sea crossings from Djibouti to Yemen. Tens of thousands of migrants attempt the journey annually, often in overcrowded and unseaworthy vessels. The IOM has called for stronger regional and international cooperation to improve safety and prevent such tragedies. The African Union expressed condolences and urged increased efforts to address the crisis. The incident underscores the ongoing risks faced by migrants seeking safer conditions in Yemen and beyond.
