Sixty-four people are missing and 10 bodies have been found after two tragic shipwrecks off Italy's southern coast, as rescue efforts continue for survivors from Iran, Syria, and Iraq.

These incidents highlight the ongoing peril faced by migrants attempting the perilous Mediterranean crossing to Europe. The UN and European rescue agencies, including Frontex, have mobilized assets to aid in the search-and-rescue operations, responding to distress signals and coordinating with local authorities. Survivors from the initial shipwreck were transported to Roccella Jonica for medical care, while rescue teams continue to scour the waters for the missing in an effort that underscores the urgent humanitarian crisis unfolding at sea.

The [first shipwreck occurred near the coast of Calabria](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/eleven-dead-italy-shipwrecks-rcna157661) on Sunday, with [a wooden boat carrying approximately 120 people](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/eleven-dead-italy-shipwrecks-rcna157661). Despite [efforts by the Italian Coast Guard](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/eleven-dead-italy-shipwrecks-rcna157661) to reach the vessel after it [sent a distress call](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/eleven-dead-italy-shipwrecks-rcna157661), the rough sea conditions hampered rescue operations. Of the 120 passengers, only 80 have been rescued so far, with crews continuing their search for the remaining individuals.

Similarly, the [second incident](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/eleven-dead-italy-shipwrecks-rcna157661) happened not far from the site of the first when a vessel reportedly overcrowded with asylum seekers [capsized](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/eleven-dead-italy-shipwrecks-rcna157661). It is believed that many of the passengers were attempting to [flee ongoing conflict](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/eleven-dead-italy-shipwrecks-rcna157661) and dire humanitarian conditions in their home countries. The tragic fate of these migrants once again draws attention to the dire state of migration across the Mediterranean.

[UN agencies have](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/eleven-dead-italy-shipwrecks-rcna157661) repeatedly sounded the alarm over the high number of migrant deaths in the Mediterranean. According to the International Organization for Migration, more than 1,500 migrants have died or gone missing while attempting to reach Europe this year alone. The agency emphasizes the need for safer migration routes and increased search-and-rescue capacity to prevent further loss of life.

Italy has been one of the frontline states in handling the influx of migrants trying to enter Europe by sea. Over the years, various Italian administrations have grappled with forming policies that balance humanitarian aid with domestic political pressures. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed sorrow over the recent tragedies and called for a united European effort to address the root causes of migration and improve the effectiveness of rescue operations.

Humanitarian organizations have often criticized European Union policies, pointing out that stringent border controls force migrants to take more dangerous routes. “We urgently need comprehensive reform of European asylum policy,” said Matteo Villa, a researcher at the ISPI think tank. “Without such reforms, these tragedies at sea will continue to happen.”

[Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/eleven-dead-italy-shipwrecks-rcna157661), has pledged additional support, including deploying aerial surveillance to aid in the search for the missing people. Their spokesperson said, “[Every life lost is a tragedy](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/eleven-dead-italy-shipwrecks-rcna157661), and we are working tirelessly in cooperation with national authorities to provide all possible assistance.”

As the search continues, local communities in Calabria have rallied to support the survivors, offering food, clothing, and shelter. Medical teams on the ground are also providing necessary healthcare services, including [treatment for injuries and psychological support](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/eleven-dead-italy-shipwrecks-rcna157661) for those traumatized by the events. Authorities have stressed the importance of international cooperation to ensure that such tragedies are minimized and that survivors are treated with dignity and care.

The [[recent shipwrecks](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/eleven-dead-italy-shipwrecks-rcna157661)](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/eleven-dead-italy-shipwrecks-rcna157661) serve as a stark reminder of the perils faced by [migrants](https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/eleven-dead-italy-shipwrecks-rcna157661) seeking a better life in Europe. With conditions worsening in many conflict zones and ongoing instability in parts of the Middle East and North Africa, the pressure on Europe’s southern borders shows no signs of easing.