The Tunisian maritime guard intercepted 96 irregular migrants off the country's southeast coast, while 43 others are still missing, Tunis Afrique Presse (TAP) agency reported Saturday.

"The rescue operation took place off Zarzis coast in the province of Medenine, where units of the maritime guard managed to rescue 96 illegal immigrants from a sinking boat," TAP quoted Mongi Selim, head of the branch of the Tunisian Red Crescent in Medenine, as saying.

Selim said 43 other migrants who were on board a small wooden boat are still missing, adding the rescue operation is still continuing.

Attempts to migrate to Italy from the Tunisian coasts to multiply during the summer season because of favorable weather conditions.