Migrant rescue charity SOS Méditerranée has resumed operations off the coast of Libya with a new ship, after the last one was forced to stop its work by European governments.

Its new vessel, the Ocean Viking, is flying the Norwegian flag.

The crew of 31 includes nine health workers from the charity’s partners, Medecins Sans Frontières (MSF).

SOS Méditerranée suspended operations by its previous vessel, the Aquarius, after it was denied entry to Italy.

Thousands of migrants attempt to cross the Mediterranean to Europe every year, and Libya is a key departure point. Those who make the journey often travel in poorly maintained and overcrowded vessels, and many have died.