Germany and Italy clash over migrant rescue ships and returns

Berlin and Rome are increasingly at odds over who should rescue migrants in the Mediterranean — and which country should ultimately take responsibility for them. Are private rescue ships offering vital aid or ultimately helping people smugglers?

SOS Méditerranée said Monday that Libyan groups have become bolder in their attempts to thwart sea crossings to Europe, targeting both migrants and rescue ships. The United Nations migration agency said the number of deaths at sea has grown, even as fewer attempts to cross are being made.

SOS Méditerranée said Monday that Libyan groups have become bolder in their attempts to thwart sea crossings to Europe, targeting both migrants and rescue ships. The United Nations migration agency said the number of deaths at sea has grown, even as fewer attempts to cross are being made.