In a significant and controversial move, US President Donald Trump has ordered the creation of a new migrant detention facility at Guantanamo Bay. The facility, separate from the infamous military prison, will house up to 30,000 people, primarily focusing on individuals deemed as “the worst criminal illegal aliens.” This decision marks a bold step in Trump’s ongoing efforts to tighten immigration controls, especially in light of rising concerns about illegal immigration at the US-Mexico border.
Expansion of Guantanamo Bay Facility
The new facility will be located at the US Navy base in Cuba, expanding detention capacity for thousands of migrants. Homeland Security confirmed that ICE will manage the facility, holding migrants intercepted by the US Coast Guard. This expansion represents a significant increase in the number of detainees the US government plans to house.
Cuba Strongly Condemns US Move
Cuba has swiftly condemned the announcement, calling it an “act of brutality.” Cuban officials have long viewed Guantanamo Bay as illegally occupied territory, a sentiment dating back to Fidel Castro’s regime in the 1950s. President Miguel DÃaz-Canel criticized the US plan, accusing Washington of disregarding international law and human rights standards. The Cuban government also voiced concerns over the facility’s proximity to notorious US prisons, drawing comparisons to the existing high-security detention center on the base.
Focus on High-Risk Migrants
President Trump stated the facility will hold migrants posing the greatest security threat to the US. He emphasized detaining certain individuals at Guantanamo due to unreliable home countries. Trump’s administration argues the move protects US citizens from criminal elements entering through irregular migration.
Congress Approves Laken Riley Act
The new facility follows the passage of the Laken Riley Act, mandating detention for undocumented immigrants committing violent crimes. The law, named after a murdered Georgia nursing student, reflects Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration. Trump signed the bill into law at the White House, reinforcing his administration’s strong border security stance.
Human Rights Concerns and International Response
Human rights groups have raised concerns that the Guantanamo facility expansion could lead to indefinite detention without due process. The IRAP condemned the US government for inhumane treatment of migrants at Guantanamo, fueling controversy. Trump’s decision to build a new detention center intensifies the global debate on US immigration policies and human rights issues.
The establishment of a Guantanamo migrant detention center has sparked strong reactions in the US and worldwide. Trump defends the move as vital for national security, while critics argue it violates human rights and international law. As the plan progresses, it will continue to shape debates on US immigration and detention policies.
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