Cyprus returns 64 Syrian migrants to Tartous after intercepting two boats in its territorial waters.
Cypriot authorities have returned 64 Syrian migrants to Syria via the port of Tartus after intercepting two boats attempting to reach the island illegally.
This move comes as part of a cooperation agreement between Nicosia and Damascus, following the European Union's confirmation that Syria is no longer classified as an "unsafe" country for refugee returns.
According to the Cypriot newspaper "Phileleftheros," the Cypriot coast guard intercepted the first boat on Friday, May 9, carrying 34 migrants, and spotted the second boat with 28 migrants on Saturday.
The interception was swift, preventing migrants from damaging the boats or seeking help, which could have given them a chance to reach the Cypriot shore.
Cypriot authorities stated that they "acted in accordance with the law and ensured the safety of the migrants," noting that the decision to return was based on a bilateral agreement with the Syrian side.
The Syrian government confirmed that the returnees "will not be prosecuted for their illegal departure," while smuggling networks will face legal action.
The newspaper revealed that smugglers charge between $4,000 to $7,000 for each migrant transported to Cyprus.
In a related context, the Syrian Ministry of Defense recently announced a campaign against human trafficking, resulting in the arrest of several smugglers and the seizure of weapons after hours-long clashes, according to an official statement.
This coordination comes as Cyprus emphasizes that cooperation with Damascus "is based on legal and humanitarian considerations," while the Syrian side stresses "not pursuing returnees judicially" unless they are involved in smuggling operations.
