DHS: IS-Linked Network Brought 400 Migrants Into US

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Facts

  • Officials from the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have claimed that a human smuggling network affiliated with the so-called Islamic State (IS) militant group has helped over 400 migrants enter the US illegally, with many still at large.1
  • While many were released into the US by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP), more than 150 have been apprehended — and some of them have already been deported — on immigration charges. The whereabouts of 50 remains unknown.2
  • NBC News reported, citing two US officials, that law enforcement agencies are 'not panicking,' as none of those smuggled have been linked to any terrorist threats since the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) began arresting them several months ago.1
  • Earlier this month, eight illegal immigrants from Tajikistan were reportedly arrested in the US for suspected ties to IS. In fiscal year 2023, the number of suspected terrorists caught illegally entering the US from Mexico or Canada was 172.3
  • Concerns have been raised regarding the connection between illegal migration and terrorism, as the US cannot screen migrants coming from countries that do not share records with the US, such as Russia, Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela.3
  • A recent report from the DHS Office of Inspector General said that the agency's efforts and means to screen migrants 'were not fully effective.' According to CBP data, one out of every 7K migrants vetted is on the terrorism watchlist.1

Sources: 1NBC, 2New York Post and 3Washington Examiner.

Narratives

  • Republican narrative, as provided by FOX News. The Biden administration is failing the country as terrorist groups take full advantage of the porous southern border. While the White House has attempted to hide the extent of the problem, arrests mount for terror suspects who entered the country illegally. It's pressing to secure the border and stop illegal immigration before this leads to deadly and tragic consequences.
  • Democratic narrative, as provided by Council on Foreign Relations. The connection between terrorism and illegal migration is a red herring, as the numbers show that it is a negligible concern. Groups such as IS have made domestic 'lone-wolf' attacks their calling card and do not prioritize smuggling in operatives illegally. The real terror threat comes from domestic extremist groups, not desperate people fleeing to America.

Predictions