The United States has witnessed a notable reduction in illegal border crossings, attributed to heightened enforcement measures implemented by Mexico. This development comes as the Biden administration engages in discussions with Senate negotiators on asylum restrictions and crucial financial aid decisions.
In a recent incident, Daniel Bermudez’s family, en route to seek asylum in the U.S., faced a halt when their freight train was stopped by Mexican immigration officials. Amid the enforcement surge, Mexico not only prevented migrants from trains but also initiated flights and buses to transport them to the southern region and, in some cases, back to their home countries.
The decrease in illegal crossings, though possibly temporary, aligns with the goals of the Biden administration. At present, discussions on asylum restrictions and a significant aid package hang in the balance.
Bermudez’s family experienced a separation as his wife engaged with authorities, emphasizing their appointment with U.S. immigration authorities. The incident underscores the complexities migrants face amid evolving enforcement strategies.
Arrests for illegal crossings from Mexico to the U.S. dropped to approximately 2,500 on Monday, significantly down from over 10,000 recorded on several days in December, as reported by U.S. authorities. In response to the decline, U.S. Customs and Border Protection reopened the Lukeville, Arizona port of entry and restored operations at various locations.
Mexico’s immigration agency facilitated over 22 flights from its border region with the U.S. to southern cities in the last 10 days of December. Additionally, removal flights to Venezuela were conducted, contributing to the overall decrease in unauthorized border entries.
While some attribute the reduction to Mexico’s enforcement efforts, experts caution against overstating its long-term impact. The U.S. has historically leaned on Mexico for short-term enforcement effects, but the broader implications remain uncertain.
By PTI
