1776Reporting
Long lines of migrants, shackled and waiting to board planes, are now the face of a new wave of deportation efforts under President Trump’s directive. On Friday, the White House announced the start of military-operated deportation flights, showcasing what they call a historic initiative to crack down on illegal immigration.
“Deportation flights have begun,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed in a post on X. “President Trump is sending a strong and clear message to the entire world: if you illegally enter the United States of America, you will face severe consequences.”
The latest deportation flights have already seen two C-17 Globemaster III aircraft transport migrants to Guatemala, defense officials revealed. One flight departed from Biggs Army Field near Fort Bliss in Texas. The Guatemalan Migration Institute later reported that 79 of their nationals, including 31 women and 48 men, were returned on these flights.
In her X post, Leavitt also pointed out the scale of the operation, calling it “the largest massive deportation operation in history.” She added, “Promises made. Promises kept.”
Sweeping Arrests Target Criminal Migrants
The deportation flights coincide with intensified arrests by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Within just a few days, ICE apprehended 538 individuals and issued 373 detainers for additional migrants. According to Leavitt, these arrests included dangerous individuals: “a suspected terrorist, four members of the Tren de Aragua gang, and several illegals convicted of sex crimes against minors.”
The arrests targeted migrants from over a dozen countries, including Afghanistan, Brazil, Colombia, El Salvador, and Venezuela. Authorities emphasized that these efforts demonstrate the administration’s commitment to protecting public safety while securing the border.
Troops Deployed to Bolster Border Security
In addition to deportations and arrests, the Trump administration has mobilized the military to strengthen border security. Acting Defense Secretary Robert Salesses confirmed that 1,500 active-duty troops are now en route to the U.S.-Mexico border. This is in addition to the 2,500 personnel already supporting Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operations.
“The department will develop and execute additional missions in cooperation with DHS, federal agencies, and state partners to address the full range of threats outlined by the President at our nation’s borders,” Salesses said.
The deployed troops are assisting Border Patrol agents with tasks like flying helicopters and constructing barriers. Officials clarified that there are currently no plans to assign law enforcement duties to these military personnel, a move that would require further approval from the White House.
A Pledge of Tough Immigration Policy
As these initiatives unfold, the administration has framed the efforts as a strong stance against illegal immigration. Leavitt highlighted the significance of the operation, pointing out that “hundreds of illegal immigrant criminals” have already been removed. The administration views these actions as part of a broader effort to protect national security and enforce U.S. immigration laws.
“This is just the beginning,” Salesses assured. He hinted at more measures to come, signaling that the administration is prepared to escalate its efforts if necessary.
With the deportation flights underway, expanded arrests, and military deployment, the administration is making clear its determination to confront illegal immigration. While the policies continue to spark intense debate, they are undeniably shaping the narrative of border enforcement in unprecedented ways.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings