Libyan-Linked Vessels Fire on Migrant Rescue Ship in Mediterranean, Raising Safety Concerns
A humanitarian rescue ship operated by the German NGO Sea-Watch was reportedly fired upon by armed vessels linked to the Libyan coast guard. The incident occurred shortly after the Sea-Watch 5 rescued approximately 90 migrants from an overcrowded boat in the Mediterranean Sea, about 27 miles from the Libyan coast. According to Sea-Watch, the Libyan vessels fired live ammunition, including a burst of 10 to 15 rounds, and ordered the ship to stop. The crew, fearing for their safety, issued a mayday call and alerted Italian and German authorities. The Italian coast guard confirmed receiving a report of the incident, which took place in a search-and-rescue area under Libyan coordination. The Sea-Watch 5 was later escorted to the Italian port of Brindisi. 
