Topline
As part of a multi-step strategy to deal with a flood of Haitian migrants, the U.S. will increase deportations.
The International bridge, where thousands of Haitian migrants set up a camp in a temporary setting, remains closed. (AP Photo/Eric Gay). ASSOCIATED PRESS
The Key Facts
After crossing from Mexico, more than 10,000 migrants, mostly Haitians are now being held at a temporary processing site under a bridge in Del Rio. DHS stated that 400 agents would arrive in Del Rio in the next 24 to48 hours to "improve the control of the area." The Coast Guard will also work with migrants to move them to alternative processing locations and ensure their removal from the U.S. is consistent with our laws. DHS stated that it will accelerate the deportation of migrants to Haiti and other countries within the next 72 hours. DHS said that emergency medical technicians were on-site to provide care for migrants. The agency also supplies water, towels, and portable toilets in response to concerns about the conditions in the area.
Important Quote
DHS released a statement saying that the Biden Administration had reiterated that our borders were not open and that people shouldn't make dangerous journeys.
Important Background
The administration of President Joe Biden had reduced its deportation flights from Haiti and extended temporary protected status eligibility to Haitians who live in the U.S. during political unrest in the Caribbean country, where President Jovenel Moe was assassinated on July 7. The country was further rocked by the August 14 earthquake that claimed more than 2000 lives. Many migrants arriving in the U.S. now appear to have fled the country many years ago. However, another earthquake destroyed Port-au-Prince. They had previously lived in South American countries such as Brazil, before making the dangerous journey northward to the border with the United States.
Tangent
The number of Haitian migrants arrested at the border is still a tiny fraction. Border Patrol statistics show that less than 4% of August's arrests were made by Haitians.
Continue reading
There are thousands of Haitian migrants waiting in Texas. Here's how many tried to enter the U.S. According to Forbes, the last year has been a record-breaking one.
Hundreds Confirmed Dead In Massive Haiti Earthquake (Forbes)
Haiti's First Lady, Still Alive, Arrives in Florida after Being Shot during Husbands Assassination (Forbes).
