Lifeboats helped anti-migrant protesters in Portsmouth, RNLI says
The RNLI has defended its lifeboat crews after they faced abuse for assisting both migrants and anti-migrant protesters during a rescue operation in Portsmouth. Volunteers were present to ensure the safety of protesters who had entered the water during the demonstration.
Why it matters
The incident underscores the intense social polarization surrounding migration issues and the challenges faced by humanitarian organizations operating in highly charged political environments.
Image source, Eddie Mitchell Image caption, The RNLI helped to bring 140 migrants ashore at Portsmouth on Sunday
Lifeboat crews helped to ensure the safety of anti-migrant protesters in the sea off Portsmouth, the RNLI has said.
On Sunday, demonstrators blocked roads to try to stop 120 cross-Channel migrants who were brought ashore at Eastney with the RNLI's assistance.
In an email to volunteers, RNLI chief executive Peter Sparkes said many protesters were in or near the water and four lifeboats stood by for their safety.
On Tuesday, Sparkes said RNLI staff had been subjected to online and physical abuse as a result of their life-saving work in the English Channel.
Posts on X, which have been seen hundreds of thousands of times, shared photos of RNLI volunteers who allegedly attended the incident.
Some of those posting accused the volunteers of "treason" in connection with the rescue.
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