The rescued group comprised 122 Bangladeshis, 12 Egyptians, nine Eritreans, four Sudanese, two Chadians and two Beninese, according to the reports.
The operation comes amid renewed concerns over dangerous Mediterranean migration routes, following two separate boat accidents off the Greek island of Crete involving vessels that had departed from eastern Libya. At least 22 migrants reportedly died in the incidents, according to the International Organization for Migration.
Libya remains a major transit point for migrants attempting to reach Europe by sea. Political divisions, insecurity and the activities of migrant-smuggling networks have continued to complicate efforts to manage migration and improve protection for people undertaking the dangerous journey.
The latest rescue highlights the continued risks facing migrants who attempt to cross the Mediterranean in overcrowded and often unseaworthy vessels, particularly as departures from North African coastlines remain a significant part of migration routes towards Europe.
