Two migrants have perished in the icy waters of the English Channel, as they tried to reach the UK on a flimsy boat. The vessel was spotted by a French patrol boat on Wednesday afternoon, less than a mile from the shore, struggling in the rough waves and strong winds. The boat was carrying 58 people, mostly from Iran and Iraq, who had risked everything for a chance of a better life.
The French authorities launched a rescue operation, sending boats and a helicopter to the scene. They managed to save 57 people, who were taken to the port of Boulogne-sur-Mer and given medical attention. One person was airlifted to a hospital in critical condition. However, for two migrants, it was too late. They had succumbed to hypothermia and drowned in the frigid sea.
The incident has sparked outrage and sadness among human rights groups and charities, who have called for more safe and legal routes for asylum seekers. They have also condemned the UK government for its harsh policies and rhetoric, which they say have pushed migrants to take more dangerous journeys. The UK Home Secretary, however, has blamed the smugglers and criminal gangs for exploiting vulnerable people and putting them in harm’s way. He has vowed to crack down on illegal crossings and increase cooperation with France to prevent further tragedies.