U.S. military C-17 aircraft began deporting detained migrants from the United States on Thursday, marking the first time in recent history that military planes have been used for such operations. This move follows President Donald Trump’s executive order declaring illegal immigration a national emergency and directing the Pentagon to achieve “complete operational control” of the southern border.
The flights, confirmed by White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt on X (formerly Twitter), transported approximately 160 migrants to Guatemala. The Pentagon stated that military aircraft will continue to assist with the deportation of more than 5,000 migrants detained in El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, California.
Military Support Expanded at Southern Border
In addition to deportation flights, the Trump administration announced plans to deploy an additional 1,500 active-duty troops to the U.S.-Mexico border. Sources told Reuters that this force may soon include units from the 82nd Airborne Division, known for their rapid-response capabilities in global conflict zones.
A Pentagon official revealed that discussions are underway about sending up to 10,000 troops to the border over time, depending on operational needs and military readiness. Troops from the 82nd Airborne Division, typically deployed for international crises, could arrive as early as next week.
During his first term, Trump had ordered 5,200 troops to assist with border security. Similar actions have been taken by past administrations, including Democratic President Joe Biden, who also sent active-duty troops to the border during his tenure.
Nationwide Crackdowns Intensify
The deportation flights coincide with a nationwide crackdown on undocumented immigrants. On Thursday, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a large-scale operation in Newark, New Jersey, resulting in the arrest of 538 individuals and the lodging of 373 detainers, according to an ICE statement.
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka criticized the operation, claiming ICE agents conducted raids without warrants and detained both undocumented residents and U.S. citizens, including a military veteran.
“This overreach undermines the rights of our residents,” Baraka said in a statement.
Leavitt hailed the crackdown as part of what she called “the largest deportation operation in history,” reiterating the administration’s commitment to addressing the estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S.
A Controversial Approach
The use of military resources for deportation and border security has drawn sharp criticism from immigrant advocacy groups and local officials, who argue it sets a dangerous precedent. However, Trump’s administration maintains that these measures are essential to safeguard national security and enforce immigration laws.
The coming weeks will likely see heightened activity at the border as the administration pushes forward with its efforts to curb illegal immigration while facing ongoing legal and political challenges.
