Spanish authorities, working with the Algerian navy and Frontex, have concluded a search for missing vessels traveling from Algeria to the Balearic Islands. Forty-one migrants were rescued from two boats found off the coasts of Mallorca and Ibiza on Friday, February 27, 2026.
Search and Rescue Operation
The search began after migrant rights group Walking Borders reported three boats missing on Thursday, carrying a total of 81 people, including 10 women and two babies. The Algerian navy intercepted two of those boats on Thursday, though the number of people on board those vessels remains unclear.
The third missing boat was located off the coast of Mallorca and all passengers were rescued. Shortly after, a fourth boat, not previously reported missing, was found south of Ibiza, and its passengers were also brought to safety. The two boats found on Friday carried a combined total of 41 migrants.
Growing Migration Route
This route between Algeria and the Balearic Islands has become one of the fastest-growing migratory passages into the European Union, even as overall arrivals to the EU have decreased. Last year, at least 483 migrants died or disappeared in the Western Mediterranean while attempting to reach Europe, according to the International Organization for Migration.
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune agreed last year to collaborate with Spain on deportations and combating smuggling networks. Spain’s Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska stated last month that Madrid may request increased Frontex air surveillance along the Algeria-to-Balearics route, but ruled out direct police deployment or equipment provision to Algeria.
Data from Spain’s Interior Ministry indicates that irregular migrant arrivals by sea to the Balearic Islands decreased by 25% between January and February 15, compared to the same period last year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the search operation?
The search operation was prompted by a warning from the migrant rights group Walking Borders, who reported three boats missing after departing from Algeria toward the Balearic Islands.
How many people were initially reported missing?
Walking Borders reported that the three missing boats were carrying a total of 81 people, including 10 women and two babies.
What is Spain doing to address this migration route?
Spain has agreed to operate with Algeria on deportations and combating smugglers. Spain’s Interior Minister indicated a possible request for more Frontex air surveillance, but ruled out deploying Spanish police or providing equipment to Algeria.
As authorities continue to monitor this increasingly active migration route, it remains to be seen what further steps may be taken to address the challenges and risks faced by those attempting to reach Europe.
