At least 12 people, mostly women and children, died when a migrant boat capsized off northern France, with nearly 70 people on board.

Rescuers saved 53 individuals, several of whom are in critical condition. The boat sank near Cap Gris-Nez, with most migrants appearing to be from Eritrea.

French authorities blamed smugglers and unsafe conditions, noting that few had life jackets.

The incident highlights the ongoing dangers of crossing the English Channel, where migrant journeys have increased despite perilous conditions, CNN has reported.

Médecins Sans Frontières criticized French and British policies for prioritizing border control over human lives.

Written by B.C. Begley