By Basant El-Faramawy
Nearly 1,000 migrants reached the UK across the English Channel in two days, ending a three-week hiatus in arrivals. Home Office figures show 671 people in nine boats arrived on Friday, following 263 people in three boats on Thursday.
Friday's Crossings and Knife Incident
Footage captured on Friday showed a man wielding a knife threatening migrants as they boarded a dinghy off the French coast near Hardelot. The man appeared to drop the knife into the water before climbing aboard the UK-bound boat, while a voice was heard shouting "I will kill you" as French rescue vessels hovered nearby.
Thursday's Arrivals End Three-Week Hiatus
Thursday's 263 arrivals broke a 21-day pause, the longest period without crossings this year, caused by high sea swell and wind. Several children wearing life jackets were among those brought ashore in Dover, Kent, as calmer weather returned.
Annual Totals and Government Response
Total Channel arrivals for 2026 stood at 21,869 after Friday's crossings. The government said crossings are down significantly, noting the lowest summer arrivals since 2020. With crossings typically lower in late autumn and winter, the 2026 total is unlikely to surpass 2025's figure.
Political Reactions
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp accused Labour of losing control of the borders, saying the party is too weak to stop the boats. He also criticised Andy Burnham for prioritising left-wing backbenchers over tough border action. Philp argued only the Conservatives have a plan that includes leaving the European Convention on Human Rights and deporting all illegal immigrants.
