Tunisia's national guard has rescued 612 migrants and recovered the bodies of 18 others after a series of tragic boat capsizings off the Mediterranean coast. The victims were attempting to reach Europe when their vessels broke down or capsized during perilous crossings.

Tunisian authorities are facing a growing migrant crisis as thousands from sub-Saharan Africa attempt perilous sea crossings to Europe. Stranded in dire conditions, many risk their lives to escape poverty and conflict.

The Italian Coast Guard has recovered six bodies and is searching for up to 40 people missing after a rubber dinghy that departed from Tunisia sank in the central Mediterranean