The humanitarian vessel Ocean Viking, chartered by SOS Méditerranée, is set to resume its rescue operations in the central Mediterranean after more than four months of forced inactivity. This interruption followed an armed attack in late August by Libyan coast guards while the ship was participating in a rescue mission in international waters.
During the incident, shots were fired at the rescue vessel, causing significant material damage, particularly to the bridge and several essential navigation and rescue systems. No injuries were reported on board, but the attack forced the NGO to immediately suspend its missions to ensure the safety of the crew and those being rescued.
During this period, technical and operational teams carried out a full refurbishment of the ship. In parallel, SOS Méditerranée strengthened crew safety training and adjusted operational procedures to allow a safe return to sea without compromising rescue capabilities.
This resumption comes amid an ongoing severe humanitarian crisis in the central Mediterranean. According to the organization, at least 299 people were reported dead or missing in October and November during attempted crossings.
SOS Méditerranée emphasizes that despite the increase in violence in the area, its rescue mission remains unchanged. Legal proceedings have also been initiated in several European countries to establish accountability for the attack on the Ocean Viking.
