Open Arms has returned to the Central Mediterranean, where over the past few weeks we have completed three rescue missions and saved a total of 105 people.
People from Eritrea, Sudan, Egypt, Somalia and Bangladesh. Women, men and children forced to face days at sea, exposed to heat, fear and uncertainty, aboard overcrowded boats or left drifting without assistance.
During missions 127, 129 and 130, we rescued 105 people, including 30 minors, after they had spent days at sea aboard overcrowded boats or drifting without assistance. The ports of Ortona, Savona and Salerno were assigned to the three missions, far from the rescue areas and reached only after several more days of navigation.
Behind every number is a person. A story, a family and a life that deserves to be protected.
For us, rescue means being there when no one else responds. It means welcoming people on board and providing care, water, protection and a safe place after days of fear.
We have returned to the Central Mediterranean, and we will continue to be present at sea. Because saving lives is not a choice: it is a duty.
