Tensions between the United States and Mexico reached a new height after Mexico refused to permit a U.S. deportation flight to land on Thursday.
The flight rejection underscores growing friction following the rigorous immigration measures implemented by President Trump after his reelection, New York Post reported.
The incident came as President Trump emphasized stringent border policies, resulting in extensive deportation activities. Two U.S. Air Force C-17 flights successfully deported individuals to Guatemala on the same day. Despite the flight rejection, cooperation between the two nations persists as Mexico has continued to accept other deportation flights.
The rejection of the U.S. deportation flight was reportedly due to confusion over the Department of Defense flight manifest, as explained by a White House official. The official assured that the issue was administrative and quickly resolved. This debacle is set amidst Trump's recent declaration of a national emergency at the US-Mexico border and heightened military presence.
The deployment of 1,500 active-duty troops to the border has intensified surveillance and construction efforts. Military aircraft are now part of deportation operations, a practice not seen since President Eisenhower's tenure. Concurrently, Mexico accepted a significant number of deportations—four flights on Wednesday, according to a White House statement.
As of Friday night, Immigration and Customs Enforcement made 593 arrests and issued 449 detainers, targeting sanctuary cities under new directives. Previously restricted ICE raids have resumed in spaces like courthouses and churches, marking a shift in the administration's approach.
Amid these efforts, approximately 2,000 individuals were deported to Mexico, while Mexican forces detained 5,000 migrants within its borders. The Trump administration's tightened border security measures have also led to limited refugee and asylum entries since Monday.
President Trump has employed the military for deportation flights, bolstering his immigration overhaul framework. These efforts are complemented by Mexico's deployment of 30,000 National Guard troops to aid in border control tasks.
The collaboration between the U.S. and Mexico remains crucial in managing immigration policies. President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico and President Trump are navigating the nuanced challenges, including concerns about tariff impositions over illegal crossings.
Despite the flight issue, White House officials indicate mutual commitment to the deportation processes. Fox News correspondent Bill Melugin relayed insights from an official who highlighted that administrative misunderstandings caused the flight refusal.
A White House official said, the flights thing was an administrative issue and was quickly rectified. Per the official, Mexico was full steam ahead to accept the deportations – and would have if there hadn’t been a misunderstanding regarding the paperwork.
Karoline Leavitt noted significant developments under President Trump's administration, referencing Mexico's acceptance of a high number of flights. She acknowledged Mexico's proactive role and highlighted successful deportation actions.
The recent refusal of a U.S. deportation flight by Mexico adds another layer to an already complex scenario at the U.S.-Mexico border. President Trump's reinforced immigration measures have intensified both cooperation and friction between the nations.
Nevertheless, operational coordination and immigration enforcement continue as both countries navigate their diplomatic and security concerns.
