Before the decision regarding Eritrea, the United Kingdom had already announced measures aimed at reducing irregular migration, amid crossings in makeshift vessels through the English Channel. In earlier reports, the traffic was described as being accompanied by an increase in the number of people crammed into boats, while authorities flagged the safety risks.
At the same time, London also used diplomatic pressure tools in its relations with other states, including through threats and reciprocal measures related to consular and diplomatic missions. In this context, tensions between the United Kingdom and Israel were reported, with possible expulsions and reactions to decisions concerning consulates and representatives’ access.
In parallel, discussions about controls and reprisals also emerged in a European context, after Spain warned Italy of countermeasures if it did not suspend the border controls imposed following the crisis in Ceuta. These episodes shaped a climate in which administrative and diplomatic measures can escalate rapidly.
