Greek Coast Guard Reduces Illegal Arrivals in Eastern Aegean by 60%

Illegal maritime arrivals to Greece’s eastern Aegean dropped sharply in the first five months of 2026, falling from 8,082 in the same period of 2025 to 3,029—a 63% decrease. The number of incidents fell from 330 to 118. The decline is attributed to a heightened presence of the Hellenic Coast Guard, intensified surveillance of key sea lanes, faster information exchange and tighter coordination with domestic and foreign authorities under the policy of the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy, led by Minister Vasilis Kikilis. In the southern sector, flows from Libya to Crete showed only a modest 3% decline despite favorable weather. Greece expanded cooperation with Libya, sending a delegation to Benghazi, establishing a permanent liaison, and planning training for 35 Libyan Coast Guard personnel. Surveillance assets now include three Frontex aircraft, a UAV and a third aircraft slated for June, providing 24‑hour coverage. Additionally, three Greek patrol vessels will be loaned to the Libyan Coast Guard for rescue and surveillance missions. The overall operational approach emphasizes rapid processing of migrants on Crete and quicker transfers to facilities, reducing dwell time on the islands.