Tragedy in the English Channel: Boat Sinks Off French Coast, Dozens of Migrants Rescued

A boat carrying over 50 migrants sank off France's northern coast while attempting to cross the English Channel. French maritime authorities rescued many in critical condition. This incident adds to the growing number of migrant deaths in the Channel this year amid Europe's stringent asylum policies and rising xenophobia.

A boat carrying over 50 migrants sank off the northern coast of France while attempting to cross the English Channel on Tuesday. French maritime authorities reported that around a dozen people were recovered in critical condition.

The English Channel, a notoriously busy and hazardous waterway, has seen at least 30 migrants die or go missing in crossing attempts this year, according to the International Organisation for Migration.

The vessel encountered difficulties off Gris-Nez point, leading to everyone aboard being plunged into the waters. A rapid rescue operation involving boats and aircraft managed to pick up over 50 people. No additional information about injuries was immediately available.

Medical teams were swiftly deployed and a first aid post was established in the fishing port of Boulogne-sur-Mer. Sea temperatures near northern France were approximately 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit).

The UK Home Office reported that at least 2,109 migrants have tried to cross the English Channel on small boats in the past week. This figure includes individuals located both in the Channel and upon arrival.

Europe's increasingly stringent asylum regulations, escalating xenophobia, and hostile treatment of migrants are driving the surge in attempted crossings.

(With inputs from agencies.)