TRIPOLI, April 30 (Xinhua) -- Seven people were rescued and 17 bodies recovered after a boat broke down off Libya's eastern coast, the Libyan Red Crescent said late Wednesday.

In a statement, the organization said the operation was carried out by a patrol vessel from the naval base in the city of Tobruk, after those on board had been stranded at sea for eight days in harsh conditions.

The rescue, conducted in coordination with naval units and the Coast Guard in eastern Libya, lasted more than eight hours, the statement said.

Libya remains a major transit hub for irregular migrants due to its proximity to Europe and its long Mediterranean coastline. Crossings typically increase between March and September, when calmer weather improves the chances of reaching the northern shore. ■