On 26 July 2024, our crew on the Sea-Watch 5 rescued 156 people from two wooden boats. With Seabird, we supported the first rescue from the air. There were people below deck in both boats, where exhaust fumes and a lack of oxygen posed an acute danger to life. Several people had to be treated in hospital on board.
The Italian authorities assigned us to the port of La Spezia – over 1,000 kilometers and almost four days away. Pure sabotage and part of a deadly political game to weaken our crew and delay the return to the search and rescue zone. Without further discussion, we finally navigated towards northern Italy – we could not risk a blockade of the Sea-Watch 5, which would mean an even longer absence in the Mediterranean Sea. Our experienced crew worked non-stop to ensure (medical) care for all our guests. We were able to use the days to educate everyone about their rights and prepare them intensively for the upcoming burdens in the fight for asylum.
On Monday morning, we entered the port of La Spezia, and it was time to say goodbye. As our guests leave Sea-Watch 5, the anger remains over the challenges they continue to face. Italy and the EU are taking inhumane measures to deprive people of their rights to get rid of them as quickly as possible.
We wish the survivors, the people on their own, the families, the mothers, fathers, and children much strength in their continued struggle for a life of safety and freedom.
Our crew will now prepare to be operational again as soon as possible. No political harassment can stop us from saving lives. We will continue to rescue lives until safe passage and freedom of movement are secured for all people.
