Cyprus has established a new agreement with Syria, enabling the return of migrants pushed back at sea.
In recent operations, Cypriot authorities pushed back two vessels carrying 62 Syrian nationals approaching Cypriot shores. The first boat with 34 people was detected Friday, followed by another with 28 individuals on Saturday.
The individuals were returned directly to Syria’s port of Tartus rather than being brought to Cyprus. This represents the first implementation of a recently established cooperation channel between the two countries.
Cypriot marine police intercepted the vessels before they reached territorial waters, enabling the direct return operation. Officials indicated Syria has provided assurances regarding the humane treatment of returning migrants.
According to Phileleftheros sources, individuals seeking to migrate pay between $4,000 and $7,000 for transport to Cyprus.
Authorities have identified patterns suggesting coordinated networks facilitate both transport and potential employment arrangements upon arrival.
The agreement comes as Syria’s interim administration under President Ahmed al-Saraa pursues international reintegration and seeks relief from economic sanctions.
Seasonal factors, including favourable weather conditions in the eastern Mediterranean, typically correlate with increased maritime movement during this period.
What is a pushback
The term “pushback” refers to measures taken by states to forcibly return migrants, including asylum seekers, to the country from which they attempted to cross or have crossed an international border, without access to international protection or asylum procedures, or without any individual assessment of their protection needs.
Such actions often violate international laws, including the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits returning individuals to countries where they may face persecution. Pushbacks can occur both at land and sea borders.
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