Illegal border crossings into the United States have significantly decreased following Mexico’s strengthened enforcement efforts. These actions, including intercepting migrants on trains and transporting them to Mexico’s southern border, have contributed to a substantial decline in border crossings.
Mexico has also facilitated the return of some migrants to Venezuela, as part of this surge in enforcement measures. While this decrease may only be temporary, it comes as welcome news for the Biden administration. As negotiations with Senate lawmakers continue, asylum restrictions and crucial financial aid for Ukraine and Israel hang in the balance.
Daniel Bermudez, who was traveling with his family seeking asylum from Venezuela, experienced the impact of Mexico’s enforcement firsthand. When their train was stopped by immigration officials, Bermudez’s wife, despite having permission to enter the U.S., was flown to Mexico’s southern border. Despite wanting to run away, Bermudez’s wife believed in following the proper procedures and making an appointment with U.S. immigration authorities.
Mexico’s immigration agency has arranged numerous flights from the border region with the U.S. to southern cities, primarily from Piedras Negras, which is just across the border from Eagle Pass, Texas. There have also been repatriation flights to Venezuela. These efforts coincided with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Mexico City in late December to address the unprecedented influx of crossings into the U.S.
Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador confirmed that the immigration agency’s financial issues, which had temporarily suspended deportations and other operations, have been resolved. This resolution has resulted in a notable drop in arrests for illegal crossings. According to U.S. authorities, there were approximately 2,500 arrests on Monday, a significant decrease from over 10,000 daily arrests in December.
The decrease in border crossings prompted U.S. Customs and Border Protection to reopen the Lukeville port of entry in Arizona, as well as other locations. This reopening has provided relief to merchants in Eagle Pass, whose sales were impacted by the closure of a bridge for border agent reassignment.
While Mexico’s efforts have played a role in reducing border crossings, it is important not to overstate their long-term impact. Panama, for instance, reported a decrease in migrants passing through the Darién jungle, indicating a lower number of people leaving South America for the U.S. Additionally, migration typically decreases in December due to holidays and cold weather.
It is clear that the U.S. can rely on Mexico for short-term enforcement measures at the border. However, the long-term effects remain uncertain. As the situation continues to evolve, it is crucial to monitor the ongoing collaboration between the two countries to address this complex issue.
Read the full article on F5mag.com.