Reform UK has announced plans to conduct "Operation Fortress," a large-scale military operation in the English Channel aimed at intercepting and returning migrant boats to France or Belgium. The party's home affairs spokesman, Zia Yusuf, described the proposal as the "largest military operation in the English Channel since World War Two."
Yusuf stated that Royal Navy vessels would intercept all migrant boats, characterizing these actions as humanitarian missions compatible with international conventions, including Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which protects the right to life. He acknowledged that this could lead to diplomatic disputes with France if French authorities refused to accept the returned migrants, but argued that international law obliges them to process such individuals.
However, Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh expressed skepticism, suggesting that the plan would involve significant time spent in "arguing with France." She emphasized that the current government is focused on tackling criminal gangs and increasing enforcement measures. According to Home Office figures, the number of National Crime Agency (NCA) officers dedicated to combating smuggling gangs has nearly doubled to approximately 800 since the start of 2025. Prime Minister Andy Burnham recently visited Dover, stating that the government is altering its approach to small boat crossings.
Retired Royal Navy commander Tom Sharpe commented that the UK's Border Force, rather than the navy, is better equipped for managing migrant arrivals. He noted that warships are not designed for transporting people and suggested a ferry would be a more appropriate vessel. Chris Philp, Conservative shadow home secretary, advocated for leaving the European Convention on Human Rights, asserting that this would allow for the swift deportation of illegal immigrants. He believes this policy would serve as a deterrent, discouraging further channel crossings.
More than 2,000 migrants have arrived in the UK on small boats since Burnham became prime minister. On a recent Saturday, 326 individuals crossed the English Channel. Despite this, Home Office figures indicate that crossings for the current year are down approximately 43% compared to the same period in 2025.