Nouakchott / Mohamed al-Bakkay / Anadolu

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said Tuesday that 144 migrants trying to reach Europe died or went missing 'following a series of tragic maritime incidents' off the coast of Mauritania last week.

This came according to a statement by UNHCR posted on its website, in which it said the Atlantic route between West Africa and Spain's Canary Islands has become 'the deadliest in the world' for migrants.

It attributed this to the long distance, volatile sea conditions, and the use of overcrowded and unseaworthy boats, as well as limited access to timely rescue operations.

It explained that between July 14 and 18, it participated alongside Mauritanian authorities and humanitarian partners in three safe landings, during which 387 people were rescued.

It highlighted the ongoing risks faced by refugees and migrants as they try to reach Europe, with many embarking on a journey of over 2,000 kilometers to their intended destination.

UNHCR noted that the number of arrivals to the Canary Islands fell by 61 percent this year compared to the first half of 2025, with 4,400 people arriving as of July 15.

It added that the number of sea arrivals to Europe via the main routes dropped from 65,407 last year to over 40,000 this year.

However, UNHCR stressed that deaths and disappearances at sea continue at alarming rates, often receiving little public attention.

It noted that many boats carrying refugees have disappeared at sea.

UNHCR said the latest tragedy off the Mauritanian coast underscores the need to address the root causes that drive refugees and migrants to leave their countries.

It added that it continues to support rescue operations in Mauritania and other areas.

Since the beginning of the year, 17 boats carrying migrants have landed in the Mauritanian cities of Nouadhibou and Nouakchott, with a total of 2,147 people rescued, according to UNHCR.