The Pentagon has designated a second military zone in the El Paso area, allowing U.S. soldiers to assist in deterring unauthorized border crossings as part of the Trump administration‘s intensified immigration enforcement. The new National Defense Area spans approximately 53 miles from Fort Bliss to Fort Hancock, Texas, and follows a similar designation last month along the New Mexico border.
Gen. Gregory Guillot of U.S. Northern Command said the move expands operational reach along the southern border. Migrants caught entering these zones face additional charges beyond unlawful entry, though both remain misdemeanors.
Critics say the use of military personnel—normally barred from enforcing domestic law under the Posse Comitatus Act—raises constitutional concerns. “They’re trained as warriors, not law enforcement,” said military law expert Geoffrey Corn. He warned the effort fuels “invasion” rhetoric despite an 87% drop in crossings since August 2024.
Local advocates voiced concern that the move could disrupt humanitarian aid and worsen migrant death rates. At least 176 migrant deaths were recorded in the El Paso sector in 2024, up from just one in 2014.
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