A newborn baby girl entered the world under extraordinary circumstances – aboard a crowded migrant dinghy making its way to Lanzarote, one of Spain's Canary Islands. Both the infant and her mother are reported to be in good health and receiving medical care at a local hospital. They are currently being treated with antibiotics and under the watchful eye of a pediatric team. Following their hospital stay, they will be transferred to a humanitarian center and then likely to a dedicated reception center for mothers and children on a different island.

The Spanish coast guard confirmed that the dinghy embarked from Tan-Tan, a province in Morocco situated approximately 135 nautical miles southeast of Lanzarote. This perilous journey across the Atlantic is undertaken by thousands of migrants each year, seeking refuge in the Canary Islands. Tragically, this route has claimed thousands of lives, highlighting the immense risks involved.

The rescue operation, aided by favorable weather conditions, involved a total of 60 individuals, including 14 women and four children. The coast guard captain recounted the moving scene of the baby's cries confirming her well-being. One of the passengers had already cut the umbilical cord before the coast guard arrived, demonstrating the resourcefulness and support within the migrant group. The coast guard provided initial medical checks and ensured the mother and baby were comfortable for the remainder of the journey.

This rescue comes amidst a larger context of ongoing migrant crossings. Overnight, Canary Islands rescue services intercepted two additional boats, carrying a combined 144 people. The Spanish migration charity, Walking Borders, reports a staggering 9,757 deaths on the Atlantic route from West Africa to the Canary Islands in 2024 alone. This route is particularly fraught with danger for women, who often face sexual violence, discrimination, racism, and deportation during their arduous journey.

While exhausted from the constant demands of their work, the rescue crews expressed pride in their efforts. They acknowledged the emotional impact of this particular rescue involving a newborn while emphasizing their commitment to aiding all those in distress at sea.