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Lebanese army rescues 51 migrants from sinking boat

18 December 2023 03:26 (UTC +04:00)

The Lebanese army announced on Sunday that it has rescued 51 people attempting an illegal sea escape from a sinking boat near the northern city of Tripoli, APA reports citing Xinhua.

According to the army's statement, those rescued included 49 Syrians and two Palestinians. The operation was carried out in collaboration with the Lebanese Red Cross.

This incident sheds light on the growing challenge of illegal immigration in Lebanon. In recent months, more Syrians, Palestinians, and Lebanese citizens have been trying to leave the country for better living conditions.

Lebanon is currently grappling with an unprecedented financial crisis, pushing over 80 percent of its population into poverty. The security agencies in the country are stepping up efforts to address the surge in illegal immigration.