French Authorities Rescue 107 Migrants at Sea

French authorities rescued 107 migrants attempting to cross the English Channel to the UK on Christmas Day, conducting 12 rescue operations along the northern coast. Among the rescues were 30 passengers from one boat near Dunkirk, and later, 51 more from another distressed vessel. The Channel has been highlighted as particularly perilous in winter, with at least 73 migrants reported dead in 2024, marking the highest death toll for crossings in the area. The UK government is under pressure to address the crisis, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasizing the need for international cooperation against people-smuggling gangs, which he classifies as a significant security threat. The ongoing humanitarian crisis raises urgent calls for action to prevent further loss of life at sea.