In a bold move to tackle the ongoing migrant surge at the border, top advisors of President Biden have engaged in robust conversations with the President of Mexico. During the meeting, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas have requested Mexico's assistance in easing the influx of migrants. The advisors have put forth several proposals, including the relocation of migrants farther south, increased control over the railways used by migrants, and offering incentives to deter them from traveling to the border.
The urgency of the situation cannot be denied. Border apprehensions have surged to alarming numbers, with a staggering 10,000 encounters in a single day back in December. Although there has been a temporary dip in apprehensions, currently averaging around 6,000 to 7,000 per day, the numbers remain substantial.
To gain a clearer picture of the crisis, let's visually analyze the situation on the US southern border. In the town of Eagle Pass, we can observe the complexities involved. On one side, we see a bridge where American citizens, who simply desire to cross back and forth between the US and Mexico, now face significant delays of up to 15 hours. Meanwhile, on the other side, an empty open field represents the waiting area for migrants crossing illegally into the United States. However, Border Patrol has been swift in their actions, efficiently transporting these individuals for processing.
Understanding the full scope of the issue, US Customs and Border Protection is closely monitoring the situation in southern Mexico. A large caravan composed of thousands of individuals from Central and South America is currently splintering as it approaches the US southern border. Additionally, there are an estimated 11,000 migrants residing in camps and shelters in northern Mexican cities. While many migrants intend to enter the US legally by utilizing established pathways, frustration and impatience have pushed some to make the decision to cross illegally.
Unquestionably, the strain on Border Patrol remains considerable. The Biden administration has responded by temporarily closing multiple ports of entry, including one in Eagle Pass, Texas. Such closures have not only impacted American citizens' trade and travel but have also sparked a standoff between the administration and Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who has taken matters into his own hands to address border security.
To address this complex issue, Secretary Blinken's visit to Mexico is certainly a positive step; however, actions must follow words. The advisors are requesting Mexico's cooperation in diminishing the number of humanitarian and tourist visas offered, to ensure they are not being exploited to facilitate illegal immigration. In turn, Mexico looks to the United States to take more substantial measures to demonstrate their commitment to resolving the crisis. Congressman Tony Gonzalez of Texas stresses the need for increased deployment of immigration judges to expedite cases and prompt returns for those who do not qualify for asylum.
As discussions continue and more potential solutions are explored, it is essential that all parties work collaboratively towards finding resolutions. The safety and security of American citizens, along with addressing the root causes of migration, should remain at the forefront of these efforts.
