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Greece’s Asylum Freeze Sparks Global Outcry Amid Crete Migrant Surge

In a move that has ignited fierce backlash from human rights organizations and the United Nations, Greece has passed legislation temporarily halting asylum applications from migrants arriving by sea from North Africa. The three-month suspension, approved by parliament with 177 votes in favor and 74 against, allows for expedited repatriation without prior identification. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis defended the measure as a “difficult but necessary decision” in response to a sharp rise in irregular arrivals, particularly from Libya to the island of Crete. Over 7,000 migrants have reached Crete and nearby Gavdos this year, straining local resources and prompting concerns from the tourism industry. Rights groups, including the International Rescue Committee, have condemned the ban as illegal and inhumane, warning it violates international and European law. The UNHCR echoed these concerns, emphasizing that the right to seek asylum is a fundamental human right regardless of how or wh...

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Tragedy at Sea: Indonesian Ferry Sinks Near Bali, Dozens Missing

Indonesian authorities are racing against time to locate 29 people still missing after a ferry sank late Wednesday night near the resort island of Bali. The vessel, *KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya*, was en route from Ketapang port in East Java to Gilimanuk port in Bali when it capsized roughly 30 minutes into its journey.

The ferry was carrying 65 individuals, including 53 passengers and 12 crew members, along with 22 vehicles. As of Thursday afternoon, 31 people had been rescued, while six fatalities have been confirmed, including a three-year-old child and his mother.

Survivors described a harrowing scene as the ferry tilted and quickly submerged. “The ship quickly sank, so I did not jump but sank with the water,” said 64-year-old Supardi, who managed to survive by clinging to a life jacket.

Rescue efforts have been hampered by rough seas, with waves reaching up to 2.5 meters and strong currents. A team of over 50 personnel, supported by helicopters and boats, continues to scour the area for survivors.

Marine accidents are tragically common in Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands, where ferry travel is widespread and safety standards are often inconsistent. Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident, with early reports suggesting a possible leak in the engine room.

The search operation remains ongoing, with hopes that more survivors may still be found.

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