Seven Ethiopian migrants have died from hunger and thirst during a harrowing seven-day journey across the sea from Bossaso, Somalia, to Yemen, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) confirmed on Wednesday, August 6.
The vessel, carrying 250 migrants including 82 children, broke down before reaching Yemen’s southern Arqah area. The IOM, which has been providing emergency aid to survivors, described the ordeal as a “week of hell,” with migrants enduring extreme conditions, fear, and exploitation throughout the voyage.
Abdusattor Esoev, IOM’s chief of mission in Yemen, warned that such tragedies will persist as desperate migrants continue risking their lives along the perilous Eastern Route. Since the start of 2025, over 350 deaths and disappearances have been recorded on this migration path, though the true figure is likely much higher. Despite the dangers, Yemen remains a transit point for many from the Horn of Africa, particularly Ethiopia and Somalia, who brave treacherous seas in search of improved livelihoods in the Gulf.