British right-wing political party Reform UK has unveiled a hardline immigration proposal, pledging to launch what it describes as the "largest military operation since the Second World War" to stop illegal migrants from crossing the English Channel in small boats.

The announcement comes amid growing political debate over illegal migration and border security in the United Kingdom, with the party promising an aggressive military-led strategy if it comes to power.

'Operation Fortress' Unveiled

Reform UK's Home Affairs spokesperson Zia Yusuf said the proposed plan, named Operation Fortress, would combine military assets and intelligence capabilities to make Britain's maritime border "the most surveilled in the world."

Under the proposal, the Royal Navy would intercept all boats attempting to enter the UK illegally through the English Channel. Migrants would be provided food, water and medical assistance before being escorted back to France or Belgium.

Yusuf claimed the party's objective was to ensure that no illegal migrant attempting to reach Britain would be allowed to land on UK shores.

Commandos Could Be Deployed

One of the most controversial aspects of the proposal is the suggestion that Royal Marines could be deployed to French beaches if cooperation from the French government is not forthcoming.

Yusuf said Reform UK would prefer to work with France but insisted the party would not hesitate to act if required.

He stated that migrants intercepted while attempting the crossing would be returned immediately, adding that the party would adopt what he described as an uncompromising approach to border enforcement.

France Rejects Proposal

French authorities have rejected the proposal, saying any attempt by British forces to operate on French territory would violate French sovereignty, international maritime law and international legal norms.

The proposal has also sparked debate over whether such a policy would be legally enforceable under existing international agreements governing migration and territorial jurisdiction.

Political Context

The announcement comes at a time when illegal migration remains one of the UK's most politically sensitive issues.

Reform UK is attempting to consolidate support as it faces competition from both the governing Labour Party and other right-wing political groups. Recent opinion polls have shown Labour and Reform UK running neck and neck on several national voting indicators.

Political analysts believe the party is seeking to strengthen its appeal among voters who favour stricter immigration controls.

Questions Over Feasibility

Legal experts have pointed out that implementing the proposal would face significant diplomatic and legal hurdles.

Deploying British military personnel onto French territory without Paris' approval would likely breach international law and trigger a major diplomatic dispute between the two countries.

While Reform UK maintains that national border security should take precedence, the proposal is expected to face close scrutiny over its legality and practicality if it becomes part of the party's election platform.