Migrants trying to reach the UK faced a tense situation on Tuesday morning as French police used tear gas to disperse a large crowd at Gravelines beach, near Calais. This incident comes amid growing concerns from UK officials about the worsening conditions in the English Channel.
Hundreds of migrants gathered on the beach, eager to board a dinghy that was waiting just offshore. As they rushed towards the boat, police intervened, deploying tear gas to control the situation. Despite the chaos, some migrants waded into the water, determined to make the crossing.
The scene unfolded shortly after a meeting between UK opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron in Canada, where they discussed the ongoing migration crisis. UK officials noted that over 16,300 people have crossed the Channel in small boats so far this year, marking a significant increase compared to the same period last year.
Witnesses reported that migrants who entered the sea had to wait in waist-deep water for nearly an hour before they could board the dinghy. The situation was chaotic, with some individuals struggling to reach the boat while others raised their arms in surrender under the thick tear gas. Disturbingly, a man carrying a small child was heard calling out in alarm as he fled the gas.
Among the migrants was an older man on crutches, who had to be helped out of the water by two others. Many were left behind as only about 50 managed to board the dinghy before it set off across the Channel. Others watched helplessly from the shore, including a group of women who expressed frustration that mostly men were able to get on the boat.
The dinghy later returned to shore about an hour and a half after its departure, raising questions about the effectiveness of the police response. Authorities did not confirm if the use of tear gas would become standard practice in such situations.
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and President Macron are scheduled to hold a summit in July to address the ongoing migration challenges. They agreed during their recent meeting that migration must be a priority, given the deteriorating situation in the Channel. Downing Street emphasized that there are no quick solutions, but actions are being taken to combat people-smuggling operations.
Officials highlighted that they are working closely with French authorities to ensure intervention even when migrants are already in the water. The government stated that it has secured agreements to review French laws, allowing their border teams to act in shallow waters.
As the situation continues to develop, the plight of those seeking a better life remains a pressing issue, with many facing perilous journeys across the Channel in search of safety and opportunity.