Turkey rescues 172 asylum seekers in Aegean Sea

By Yusuf Soykan

IZMIR, Turkey (AA) - The Turkish Coast Guard rescued a total of 172 asylum seekers off Turkey's western coast since Sunday.

On Aug. 29, 72 asylum seekers were rescued near Menderes district in Izmir province after being pushed back by Greek coastal authorities.

On Aug. 30, 32 asylum seekers pushed back by Greek authorities were rescued in Izmir's Cesme district and 30 asylum seekers who requested help off Izmir's Karaburun district were rescued by the Turkish Coast Guard.

The Turkish Coast Guard also rescued 31 asylum seekers near Dikili district and seven others in Foca district on Aug. 31.

After routine checks, they were taken to the provincial migration authority.

Turkey has repeatedly condemned Greece’s illegal practice, saying it violates humanitarian values and international law by endangering the lives of vulnerable migrants, including women and children.

Turkey has been a key transit point for asylum seekers aiming to cross into Europe to start new lives, especially those fleeing war and persecution.