NICOSIA, Cyprus (AP) — On Monday, state-run television in Cyprus announced the recovery of seven bodies following the sinking of a migrant boat off the south coast of the island. The tragic incident highlights the ongoing migrant crisis in the region, which has increasingly drawn attention due to the rising number of irregular crossings.

According to the report, two individuals were rescued by authorities in the immediate aftermath of the incident. The Joint Rescue Coordination Center, which is coordinating the response efforts, confirmed that a military helicopter, rescue vessels, and a drone were deployed as part of the ongoing search and rescue operation. However, officials refrained from providing detailed comments on the casualty figures, citing the early stage of the operation and the dynamic nature of the rescue efforts.

The search is still active, with teams continuing to look for additional people who are believed to be missing in the waters off Cyprus. The conditions of the sea and the urgency of the situation have turned the operation into a race against time, as rescuers seek to locate any survivors or recover further bodies.

This incident comes against a backdrop of increasing concern regarding irregular border crossings into the European Union, particularly in the eastern Mediterranean region. According to the European Union border protection agency Frontex, there was a notable rise in irregular crossings last year, even as overall figures for the bloc showed a more general decline. This has raised questions about the effectiveness of current migration policies and border management strategies in the region.

As migration remains a pressing issue in Europe, such tragedies are becoming all too common. The ongoing search and rescue operations off the coast of Cyprus serve as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by migrants attempting to reach Europe, often fleeing conflict, persecution, or dire economic circumstances in their home countries. The international community continues to grapple with the challenges posed by migration and the humanitarian responsibilities that come with it.

For further information on migration issues and updates on the evolving situation in Cyprus, you can follow the AP's specialized coverage dedicated to this pressing topic.