The perilous sea journey across the Mediterannean has reportedly claimed the lives of hundreds of migrants.<br /><br /> The United Nations Refugee agency, which spoke to a handful of survivors said an estimated 300 probably died this week after attempting to reach Italy from Libya.<br /><br /> Nine people were rescued and taken to the Italian island of Lampedusa. They are understood to be the only survivors from two boats. More than 200 are unaccounted for.<br /><br /> Temperatures have plummeted and high seas have been running in the Mediterannean. On Sunday 29 migrants died after suffering from hypothermia.<br /><br /> The deaths have reignited criticism of Italy’s decision to stop its search-and-rescue mission due to concerns over costs.<br /><br /> On Wednesday Pope Francis told pilgrims he was “following with concern the news out of Lampedusa.”
