The International Organization for Migration (IOM), a United Nations agency, reported today (Wednesday) that over 900 migrants have died or gone missing in the Red Sea during 2025, making it the deadliest year ever on the 'Eastern Route' that connects the Horn of Africa to the Arabian Peninsula.
Tens of thousands of migrants from the Horn of Africa, particularly from Ethiopia and Somalia, take this route annually in an attempt to reach the oil-rich Gulf countries, fleeing conflicts, natural disasters, and dire economic conditions in their home countries. Most of these migrants often begin their sea crossing from Djibouti.
Details of the Incident
The head of the IOM mission, Tania Pacifico, informed the French Press Agency that the number of dead and missing reached 922, which represents double the number of victims from the previous year. She noted that most of the victims are from Ethiopia.
Ethiopia is the second most populous country in Africa, with a population of about 130 million, and over 40 percent of its population lives below the poverty line, according to the World Bank.
Background & Context
Ethiopia is experiencing instability due to armed conflicts, having witnessed a bloody civil war in the Tigray region (north) between 2020 and 2022, which resulted in the deaths of over 600,000 people, according to estimates from the African Union. A local official also reported that around 1,300 people have died from hunger or lack of medicine in displacement camps in Tigray since the end of the war.
Despite expectations of economic growth in Ethiopia of about 10 percent in 2026, inflation nearing 10 percent in February could undermine this progress and increase migration pressures.
Impact & Consequences
Many migrants who successfully cross the borders find themselves stranded in Yemen, the poorest country in the Arabian Peninsula, where they suffer from harsh conditions due to the ongoing civil war that has lasted nearly a decade. Some choose to return to their home countries due to the difficulties of life there.
Concerns are growing that the situation in the Red Sea may worsen as conflicts continue in the Horn of Africa, increasing the number of migrants attempting to cross the sea under dangerous conditions.
Regional Significance
This situation poses a significant challenge for Arab countries, especially those receiving migrants. It requires a coordinated response from Arab governments to address the influx of migrants and provide the necessary humanitarian support.
The rising number of migrants may exacerbate humanitarian crises in the region, necessitating enhanced cooperation between Arab countries and the international community to address the root causes of this phenomenon.
In conclusion, this report highlights the urgent need for effective measures to protect migrants and provide them with the necessary support amid the difficult conditions they face.