(VOVworld) - 700 refugees were rescued off the coast of Libya as they attempted to make the perilous journey to Europe, announced by Italy’s coast guard, adding that those people were aboard seven flimsy overcrowded boats when they were picked up.

700 refugees rescued off Libya coast (Source: THX/VNA)

The Phoenix rescue ship, operated by the non-governmental organization MOAS, rescued more than 300 people from three boats in international waters off the coast of the Libyan city of Sabratha. The Aquarius, operated by SOS Mediterranean and Doctors without Borders, went to the aid of four rubber boats. Italy’s coast guard coordinated the rescues.