Staff Reports
Top Senate Republicans are demanding an explanation from the Biden administration regarding the entry of eight suspected ISIS terrorists into the United States through the U.S.-Mexico border. Senators Lindsey Graham and Rand Paul have contacted Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, seeking answers on how federal law enforcement permitted these individuals to enter the country.
Graham and Paul have expressed serious concerns about potential vulnerabilities in border security and immigration screening processes. They emphasized the need for detailed information to understand the scope of these issues and ensure that border infrastructure and national security systems effectively protect against such threats.
Washington Examiner: Top Senate Republicans press Mayorkas on admission of eight suspected ISIS terrorists at border https://t.co/fgcf9dQlwN
— Ian Hansen 🇺🇸🇺🇸 (@IanHansenFeed) June 17, 2024
The senators' actions were prompted by a New York Post report revealing that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested the suspects in Los Angeles, New York City, and Philadelphia. It was disclosed that these individuals were encountered at the southern border and released into the country before their serious national security threat was realized.
Graham and Paul have demanded that Mayorkas turn over all "A-Files" and share communications between the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI regarding the suspected terrorists. They also seek information about each person's arrest and detainment, as well as their histories in criminal and international databases at the time of screening.
Mayorkas has been given a deadline of June 28 to provide the requested information to the senators.
The issue of illegal immigrants on the FBI terrorist watch list entering the U.S. has raised significant concerns under President Joe Biden’s administration. In fiscal year 2023, the Border Patrol apprehended over 172 known or suspected terrorists illegally entering the country, a substantial increase compared to previous years.
FBI Director Christopher Wray has previously testified about the vulnerability of the border to exploitation by terrorists, highlighting the urgency of addressing these border security challenges.
The actions taken by Senators Graham and Paul underscore the Republican lawmakers' determination to hold the Biden administration accountable for border security and national security concerns, demonstrating their commitment to safeguarding the country against potential threats.
