The Trump administration is reportedly considering a plan to establish a military-controlled buffer zone along the U.S.-Mexico border, temporarily detaining migrants who enter illegally. According to The Washington Post, the proposed zone would stretch from West Texas to Southern California as part of a broader effort to tighten immigration enforcement.
Key Details
- The buffer zone would be approximately 60 feet deep, covering areas from El Paso, Texas, to the Pacific Ocean near Tijuana, Mexico.
- While the plan is still under deliberation, officials suggest it could lead to stricter penalties for migrants caught in the zone, including expedited deportations.
- President Trump previously ordered thousands of active-duty troops to the southern border, with about 10,000 service members currently involved in border security efforts.
- The Defense Department recently established a joint task force at Fort Huachuca, Arizona, to enhance border security, and the proposed buffer zone could function as an extension of nearby military installations.
- Legal concerns remain, as the Posse Comitatus Act limits the use of active-duty military for civilian law enforcement, raising questions about the feasibility of the plan.
What Is a Buffer Zone?
A buffer zone is a neutral area between two regions, often observed or patrolled by military forces to prevent conflicts. While used in international disputes, the implementation of such a zone within U.S. borders remains legally and politically complex.
The Defense and Homeland Security departments have yet to comment on the proposal. Whether President Trump will approve the plan remains uncertain, as officials continue evaluating its legal and logistical challenges.
