Trump Admin’s Urgent Deal with Belize Targets Illegal Immigration

UPDATE: The Trump administration has just announced a critical Safe Third Country agreement with Belize aimed at curbing illegal immigration to the United States. This urgent deal allows asylum seekers currently in the U.S. to resettle in Belize while their cases are processed, marking a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy.

The U.S. State Department confirmed the agreement in a statement released on October 23, 2023, highlighting its goal to dismantle the abuse of the nation’s asylum system. Belizean officials have stated that they retain the right to reject individuals at their discretion, ensuring national security remains a priority.

“This agreement is an important milestone in ending illegal immigration and reinforcing our commitment to tackling challenges together in our hemisphere,” said the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs in a social media post. The announcement follows the Trump administration’s aggressive campaign to deport illegal immigrants, with over 500,000 deportations and approximately 485,000 arrests reported by the Department of Homeland Security since President Trump returned to office.

The deal with Belize is part of a broader strategy, as the U.S. has previously signed similar agreements with countries like Paraguay, Eswatini, Rwanda, and South Sudan. Earlier this year, both Costa Rica and Panama accepted American flights carrying deportees from Asian nations, further expanding the U.S. deportation network.

However, the response within Belize has not been entirely positive. Opposition leader Tracy Panton expressed deep concerns, stating, “While Belize must continue to promote regional cooperation, the reality is that our nation lacks the capacity and resources to manage such responsibilities.” This sentiment underscores the potential challenges Belize may face in implementing the agreement.

The agreement will need to be ratified by the Belizean Senate before it officially takes effect, and it is set to remain valid for at least two years unless terminated by either party. Belizean officials have outlined that individuals deemed threats to public safety will not be allowed entry, emphasizing their commitment to national security.

As the situation develops, all eyes will be on Belize and the U.S. to see how this agreement unfolds and its impact on immigration patterns in the region. The urgency of the matter amplifies as the Biden administration faces mounting pressure to address immigration reform amidst ongoing challenges at the southern border.

Stay tuned for further updates on this pivotal agreement and its implications for thousands of asylum seekers and the future of U.S. immigration policy.