President Donald Trump recently announced his intentions to utilize the Guantanamo Bay facilities for detaining migrants, marking a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy. Speaking about his plans, Trump stated that he would sign an executive order instructing the Defense and Homeland Security departments to prepare the facilities at Guantanamo Bay, located on the island of Cuba, for this purpose. This move is part of Trump's broader strategy to address illegal border crossings and manage undocumented migrants in the United States.
As of February, only four migrants were held at the Guantanamo Migrant Operations Center. However, the Global Detention Project notes that the facility can accommodate 130 individuals. Despite this, the exact maximum capacity remains unclear. Trump claimed that the facility has the potential to host 30,000 beds, arguing that opening Guantanamo would "double our capacity immediately."
"So we're going to send them out to Guantanamo." – Donald Trump
The Guantanamo Migrant Operations Center has a long history of holding migrants, having served this function for decades. Trump's plan involves using this facility to detain what he describes as "the worst criminal illegal aliens." He emphasized that Guantanamo is "a tough place to get out of," reinforcing his stance on preventing migrants from returning.
Illegal U.S. border crossings experienced a sharp increase during President Joe Biden's administration but saw a decline in the final months of his term. Trump's proposal aims to further reduce these numbers by enhancing detention capabilities. This initiative aligns with his previous efforts to crack down on illegal immigration and deport undocumented migrants en masse.
Trump's remarks about sending migrants to Guantanamo highlight his determination to address immigration challenges. The facility's use for migrant detention underscores the administration's focus on strict border control measures. By ordering preparations at Guantanamo Bay, Trump signals a continuation of his hardline approach to immigration policy.