Complete Maritime Profile & Reviews of Aquarius

On December 6, SOS Méditerranée announced the suspension of the humanitarian operations of the 'Aquarius' in the Mediterranean Sea, citing overwhelming political pressure and the criminalization of their efforts. The organization has plans to acquire a new vessel for migrant rescue missions despite the challenges faced. Since September 4, the Aquarius has been docked in Marseille. The decision to halt its operations stemmed from a relentless campaign of denigration, obstruction, and smear tactics orchestrated by the Italian government, with backing from other European nations. Medecins sans Frontieres denounced recent allegations against the ship, which claimed involvement in waste trafficking and other criminal activities, labeling them as 'ludicrous.' Italian Interior Minister Matteo Salvini's actions, including repeatedly closing Italian ports to the Aquarius, forced the ship to navigate for days with numerous rescued migrants on board to seek refuge in ports of other countries.

On November 19, 2023, Italian authorities took decisive action by issuing a seizure order for the humanitarian ship 'Aquarius,' following serious allegations of improper waste management practices. Investigators suspect that the vessel has inappropriately disposed of around 24 tonnes of waste, potentially hazardous, misclassifying it as ordinary refuse. The investigation is being led by prosecutors in Sicily. However, the organization 'Ärzte ohne Grenzen' has strongly denied the allegations, asserting that all operations, including waste disposal, adhered to established protocols. Notably, the 'Aquarius' has been docked in Marseille since September 4, 2023, while these inquiries unfold.

A group of 58 migrants, predominantly of Libyan descent, were successfully brought to Valletta, Malta on September 30, following a dramatic rescue operation by the 'Aquarius 2' on September 24 off the coast of Libya. After nearly a week of waiting in international waters, these individuals were safely transferred from the 'Aquarius 2', which remained in international waters to prevent legal complications, to a Libyan Coastguard vessel. Among those rescued were 17 women and 18 minors. Following health and legal assessments, arrangements have been made for their relocation to various European nations under an agreement established on September 25. Spain and Germany are set to each host 15 migrants, while France will welcome 18 and Portugal 10. This operation highlights ongoing humanitarian efforts to address the plight of migrants in the Mediterranean.