Greece has taken a drastic step in its ongoing migration crisis, suspending asylum applications for migrants arriving by sea from North Africa for three months. The decision, made by Greek lawmakers on Friday, comes in response to an overwhelming surge of arrivals on the island of Crete, where local facilities are struggling to cope with the influx. Hundreds of migrants are landing daily, some rescued at sea, while others brave dangerous journeys in overcrowded boats.

Conditions on Crete are dire, with makeshift shelters housing individuals amid sweltering summer heat. Local officials report cramped quarters and rising medical needs, as the island grapples with both a tourism peak and an unprecedented migration challenge. Smugglers charge migrants up to €5,000 for perilous trips from eastern Libya, making this route one of the most active and treacherous into the European Union.

The Greek government argues that the suspension is necessary to deter further arrivals, stating that detained individuals will not enter the asylum process and will be swiftly returned. However, human rights organizations and the United Nations have condemned the move as illegal and inhumane, warning that it jeopardizes lives.

As the situation escalates, the Greek Prime Minister insists that the country will not serve as an “open corridor” to Europe. Meanwhile, the European Commission remains silent, caught between supporting Greece and upholding international law. The urgency of this crisis is palpable, with no clear solution in sight as local authorities scramble to manage the overwhelming tide of humanity seeking refuge. The next three months will be critical in determining the fate of countless lives caught in this complex and dangerous web of migration.