Recent data from Customs and Border Protection (CBP) indicates a significant increase in the number of individuals on the terror watchlist being apprehended at the border.

The current fiscal year, 2024, is witnessing a troubling trend with 31 individuals already apprehended who are on the terror watchlist.

This figure suggests the possibility of surpassing the previous year's record. Fiscal Year 2023 saw a record-breaking number of 172 individuals on the watchlist caught at the border. This was a dramatic increase from the 98 individuals apprehended in FY 2022, Newsweek reported.

Rising concerns with terror watchlist apprehensions

The alarming increase coincides with the growth in the Terrorist Screening Dataset, commonly known as the watchlist.

As reported by CBS News, the watchlist currently includes around 2 million individuals. This is a notable rise from the 1.16 million listed in 2017.

Following the recent Israel-Hamas war that began on Oct. 7, CBP received a warning on Oct. 20. The warning advised vigilance against potential attempts by members of terrorist groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and Palestine Islamic Jihad to cross the southern border.

In response to these concerns, CBP emphasized the rarity of such encounters and highlighted the agency's efforts.

Their statement underscored the significance of the work done by CBP Agents and Officers at the borders. They employ a blend of skilled personnel, surveillance technologies, and comprehensive intelligence networks to ensure border security.

Record-breaking illegal border crossings

Simultaneously, there has been an unprecedented increase in the number of individuals illegally crossing the border. In the first two months of FY24 alone, CBP encountered 617,865 individuals. This number is significantly higher than the figures from FY23, which set a record with 3.2 million encounters.

This surge in illegal crossings has sparked serious security concerns.

House Committee on Homeland Security Chair Mark Green (R-TN) criticized Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. He labeled the situation as "national security malpractice."

Green voiced his concerns about border security.

He highlighted a staggering 2,500 percent increase in the number of individuals found on the terrorist watchlist while crossing the Southwest border from Fiscal Years 2017-2020 to Fiscal Year 2023. He stated:

Border security is national security; and right now, the border is not secure... Secretary Mayorkas must be held accountable for this national security malpractice.

International collaboration and high-level meetings

In response to the escalating situation, high-ranking U.S. officials are taking action.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, along with Homeland Security Adviser Liz Sherwood-Randall and Mayorkas, have been sent by President Joe Biden to Mexico. Their mission is to discuss border security with Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

This diplomatic move follows a request from House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA).

He urged President Biden to use executive action to address the border crisis. Additionally, Johnson suggested reopening discussions about the Trump-era program known as "Remain in Mexico." However, it's not clear whether this will be a topic in the meetings with the Mexican president.

The high-level visit, expected to take place next week, is seen as a crucial step in addressing the complex challenges at the border. It reflects the Biden administration's commitment to finding solutions in collaboration with Mexico.

Escalating security concerns at the border

The rising numbers of individuals on the terror watchlist being apprehended at the U.S. border raise significant security concerns.

This situation poses a challenge to border control and national security agencies. The increased vigilance and enhanced security measures are crucial in addressing these threats.

The data from CBP highlights the critical nature of the border security operations. These operations are not only about managing the flow of people but also about safeguarding the nation from potential security threats.

With the numbers already on pace to exceed last year's record, the focus is now on how the U.S. government and its agencies, in collaboration with international partners, will respond to these evolving security challenges.

Conclusion

• Data shows a potential record-breaking year in terror watchlist apprehensions.
• Growth in the Terrorist Screening Dataset reflects an increase in security risks.
• CBP's vigilant efforts in border security are crucial in these challenging times.
• International collaboration and high-level discussions are underway to address the crisis.
• Continued focus and action are required to manage and secure the U.S. borders effectively.