On the morning of July 17, 2025, migrants made a desperate attempt to cross the English Channel from Gravelines beach in France, with a video capturing them rushing into the water and boarding an overcrowded boat, where French authorities provided life jackets.

This surge underscores the persistent danger migrants face in attempting the crossing and the ongoing challenge for authorities to manage the crisis.

UK and French leaders have emphasized the need for collaborative solutions to address irregular migration and improve border control amidst criticism of the government's handling of the situation.

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described the returns scheme as 'groundbreaking' and 'aggressive,' though he acknowledged its limited scope given the high number of arrivals.

There are concerns that legal challenges could delay the plan, similar to issues faced by previous migrant policies.

Overall, despite these measures, the number of migrants crossing the Channel continues to rise, reflecting the ongoing and complex nature of the crisis.

Since the start of 2025, over 22,500 migrants have crossed the Channel to the UK, with more than 21,117 crossings reported so far this year, marking a 56 percent increase from the previous year.

The UK government plans to trial a 'one-in, one-out' scheme starting in August 2025, aiming to return 800 migrants to France while allowing an equal number to enter legally.

The new migrant deal includes provisions for migrants arriving by small boat to be quickly detained and returned to France, with a pilot scheme returning only 50 migrants weekly.

The agreement sets eligibility criteria for asylum seekers, allowing only those without previous illegal attempts and with legitimate claims or family ties in Britain to qualify.

France retains the ability to select which migrants to take back, raising concerns that individuals with criminal backgrounds may be accepted into the UK under this scheme.

The scene, filmed by PA news agency, shows migrants emerging from sand dunes and rushing into the sea, highlighting the ongoing crisis of Channel crossings.

Approximately 40 migrants, including a family with two children, managed to board the dinghy after being dropped off by a boat early in the morning, with no police presence on the beach.