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Italy Detains Sea-Watch 5 After Crew Refuses Orders That Put Lives at Risk

Berlin / Trapani, 30 March 2026 – Italian authorities have imposed a 20-day detention and a €10,000 fine on the civilian search-and-rescue vessel Sea-Watch 5. On March 15, the ship rescued 93 people in distress in international waters. During the rescue operation, the crew refused to communicate with Libyan militias, which return refugees to systems…

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Sea-Watch 5 Declares State of Necessity

Following the rescue of 93 people in distress at sea in international waters on Sunday, 15 March, the rescue vessel Sea-Watch 5 has been forced to declare a state of necessity due to the acute medical situation and Italy’s violation of international law by denying a place of safety. In this situation, entering a port…

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