Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez extended condolences, emphasizing the need for humanitarian action in response to the tragedy, which highlighted the desperate circumstances faced by migrants seeking a better future.

Despite the rapid response, the high number of casualties complicated rescue efforts, with reports indicating that up to 180 people were on board the overcrowded vessel.

During a recent visit by European parliamentarians, discussions focused on improving migrant infrastructure and response measures, although the need for enhanced asylum and return procedures was acknowledged.

While there has been a 34% decrease in migrant arrivals to the Canary Islands by mid-May 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, the journey remains perilous, with many still attempting the dangerous Atlantic crossing.

On May 28, 2025, a migrant boat capsized while approaching the port of La Restinga on El Hierro, resulting in at least seven fatalities, including a 16-year-old girl and two five-year-old girls.

Fernando Clavijo, the president of the Canary Islands, expressed feelings of helplessness regarding the tragedy and called for increased resources and European assistance to manage the ongoing immigration crisis, particularly concerning unaccompanied minors.

Emergency services, including the Red Cross, responded quickly to the disaster, with footage captured by Spanish public broadcaster RTVE showing the chaotic rescue efforts.

El Pinar's mayor reported that some passengers were trapped inside the capsized boat, emphasizing the chaotic scene with survivors clinging to lifebuoys.

Among the rescued, a three-month-old baby experiencing breathing difficulties was taken to a local hospital, while four additional minors with respiratory issues were also transferred for treatment.

As EU migration policies tighten in the Mediterranean, migrants are increasingly resorting to perilous crossings in unseaworthy boats, underscoring the ongoing immigration crisis.

Initial reports indicated five deaths, but the total was later updated to six, highlighting the tragic loss of life in this incident.

Further information regarding the accident and ongoing rescue efforts is expected to be released soon, as local officials continue to assess the situation.