Army Plans to House 30,000 Migrant Detainees at Domestic Bases
Washington, D.C. – The United States Army has initiated preparations to house up to 30,000 migrant detainees on military bases within the United States, according to a Defense official. This surge in detention capacity aligns with President Donald Trump’s declaration of a national emergency at the border and his directive to the military to assist the Department of Homeland Security in addressing the influx of migrants.
Fort Bliss to Host Initial Detainees
Fort Bliss in Texas is expected to be the primary destination for the initial wave of detainees, according to an unnamed Defense official who declined to elaborate on specific military planning decisions. Other domestic bases, including Fort Huachuca in Arizona, are also being considered for potential use in the detention operation.
Base Preparations Underway
Officials are currently assessing necessary resources for the operation, including tents and concertina wire. Previous precedent exists for military bases in the continental United States, including Fort Bliss, hosting migrant detainees. Currently, construction is underway at the Bliss facility, as confirmed by a second Defense official.
Guantanamo Bay Detention
Under the second Trump administration, the Pentagon has also transferred a number of detained migrants to the Guantanamo Bay naval base. However, the current endeavor, with its projected 30,000 detainees, will be significantly larger than previous military-based detention operations.
Trump’s Border Emergency
President Trump has designated the situation at the U.S.-Mexico border as a national emergency and has requested the military’s assistance in supporting the Department of Homeland Security. As a result, approximately 1,500 active-duty soldiers and Marines have been deployed to the border, bolstering the existing force of 2,500 troops.
Army’s Role in Detention
Army soldiers will primarily be responsible for securing the perimeters of the detention facilities, ensuring the external security of the bases. However, members of the Texas National Guard, who have been federally deputized, may participate in guarding the detainees.
Defense Secretary’s Visit
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made a visit to Fort Bliss to meet with troops following his confirmation by the Senate.
Decline in Migration
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the number of migrant encounters at the border had fallen significantly towards the end of the Biden administration, with approximately 1,000 encounters being reported daily in early January, a 75% decrease compared to the previous year.
