Strategic policy shifts under President Donald Trump have allowed U.S. Army troops to detain illegal immigrants at the southern border, marking a new era in border enforcement.
At a Glance
- U.S. Army troops active in detaining illegal immigrants in newly designated military zones.
- Approximately 260 miles of the Texas and New Mexico border marked as military territory.
- First recorded detentions by Defense personnel within National Defense Areas.
- Military zones effectively operate as provisional army bases.
- U.S. troops have detected around 390 illegal border crossings in these areas.
Initiating Border Detentions
U.S. Army personnel marked a defining milestone by actively detaining illegal immigrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico southern border. This action follows gradual policy advances, initiated under President Donald Trump, transforming sections of the Texas and New Mexico border into military zones.
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth approved the classification of these 260-mile territories as extensions of military bases. The June 3 commencement of detainment procedures illustrates an escalated military approach to addressing illegal immigration. On record, this shift marks the first instance of Defense personnel involvement in such law enforcement tasks within National Defense Areas.
Authorized Military Engagement
Under U.S. Northern Command, troops were delegated authority to support installation security operations, encompassing the detention of unauthorized individuals crossing into the New Mexico National Defense Area (NMNDA). Troops have, thus far, registered 390 illegal crossings, evidencing the area as an operational frontier against unauthorized migration. Near Santa Teresa, New Mexico, military personnel detained three individuals, transferring custody to U.S. Border Patrol.
“delegated the authority and directed to conduct installation security support operations” – U.S. Northern Command.
Recognizing military zones as deterrents aligns with objectives to manage security threats directly. U.S. forces are also permitted to perform cursory searches, ensuring safety. This operational shift is not only historic in Defense terms but highlights attempts to fortify national security on U.S. soil.
Military as a Border Enforcement Tool
Designating these zones underscores the intention of broader military involvement at national borders as a prevention strategy. As military personnel adjust to these roles, the administration highlights its firm stance against illegal immigration. Simultaneously, Secretary Hegseth’s actions reflect confidence in Defense capabilities to shoulder such responsibilities.
This marks the first time Department of Defense personnel have recorded a temporary detainment within either National Defense Area.” – Major Geoffrey Carmichael.
The integration of Defense personnel into border management exemplifies a redefined scope of military duties. Such endeavors embrace collaboration with Homeland Security, remaining imperative for national safety, while reconsidering traditional military engagements.
