Immigration Control Tightened at US Airports: ICE Agents Begin Work from Monday
US Airports Tighten Immigration Checks - Immigration checks are being tightened at US airports - The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will significantly expand its scope of operations at the country's airports starting from Monday. This move coincides with a period of growing dissatisfaction among travelers and inspection staff due to the government shutdown.
According to Politico, former ICE director Tom Homan confirmed this news. Homan noted that the number of immigration officers at airports will be further increased, and the main goal of this is to strengthen border security.
The government shutdown led to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees working without pay, which caused long queues and general dissatisfaction at airports. According to AP News, the increase in the powers of immigration officers could further complicate the already tense situation.
Travelers, especially those arriving on international flights, may face additional immigration control in addition to existing checks. This situation could lead to additional delays and certain difficulties, especially for travelers during the holiday season.
In various regions of the country, including Seattle-Tacoma (Sea-Tac) and Atlanta airports, local governing bodies have expressed concerns regarding ICE's planned activities. Atlanta Mayor Dickens, in a statement to CBS News, emphasized that they are closely monitoring the situation that may arise at the airport.
According to The Washington Post, the increase in the powers of immigration officers amidst the problems at TSA has led to disputes in some circles. How this step will affect immigration policy and the experience of travelers will become clearer in the coming days.