France Withdraws Commitment to Intercept Migrant Boats Amid Channel Crisis

France is retreating from its commitment to actively intercept migrant boats crossing the Channel to the UK, undermining British efforts led by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to control the migrant flow. Despite earlier promises and footage of French police slashing dinghies near the coast, the plan to enforce tougher maritime patrols has stalled amid political instability in France and concerns over safety risks for both migrants and officers. UK border officials, including Martin Hewitt, have expressed frustration over delays, while critics label the French pledge as a political stunt with no real enforcement. Migrant crossings continue unabated, with daily launches of overcrowded inflatables from areas near Dunkirk, and the so-called "one in, one out" return scheme has been ineffective as migrants repeatedly reattempt crossings. The departure of key French officials who supported a stricter approach has further weakened the initiative, leaving the UK to face ongoing challenges from increasing Channel crossings. Observers warn that the British public will bear the consequences of this faltering strategy amid the continuing crisis.