French and British vessels jointly rescued 157 migrants in the English Channel after their boat caught fire on Tuesday. The incident occurred off the coast of Boulogne-sur-Mer, with passengers forced to jump into the water as the vessel became engulfed in flames. Initial rescues occurred Monday night, assisting five individuals who were brought to shore, but other occupants initially declined help. As the boat neared British waters, the engine ignited, rapidly deteriorating the boat's condition and prompting a large-scale rescue operation involving both French and British resources. Fortunately, no immediate casualties were reported. Authorities note an increase in larger boats being used for these crossings, carrying a growing number of people.