The Land of the Free is facing a water crisis thanks to its southern neighbor. President Donald Trump is currently calling out Mexico for its blatant disregard of the 1944 Water Treaty, which requires Mexico to send water to Texas farmers. Apparently, the folks in Mexico must think that treaties are more like suggestions than actual agreements. The outright failure of Mexico to deliver on its obligations isn’t just causing a little inconvenience – it’s creating a full-blown crisis for farmers in South Texas who are left high and dry.
According to Trump, Mexico is shortchanging Texas a whopping 1.3 million acre-feet of water. This is leading to devastation for the agricultural community. The last remaining sugar mill in Texas had to shut down, and that’s no trivial loss. The sugar industry, vital for both economy and jobs, has suffered terribly because Mexico is hoarding the water that Texan farmers rightfully need. While Ted Cruz valiantly fights to hold Mexico accountable, President Biden can’t even be bothered to step in and assist the beleaguered farmers.
Trump Accuses Mexico of Violating Treaty, 'Stealing' from Texas Farmers: 'That Ends Now': “This is very unfair, and it is hurting South Texas farmers very badly,” Trump said. https://t.co/p54Qhe56G9 pic.twitter.com/hCtcbqoKlb
— The Western Journal (@WestJournalism) April 11, 2025
Trump isn’t taking this lying down. He’s taking robust measures to ensure that Mexico adheres to its end of the treaty. Just last month, the State Department denied a request for water exports to Tijuana—something almost unheard of since the treaty was enacted. This denial has sent a strong message: if Mexico can’t meet its obligations, Texas won’t be sending water in the other direction either. It’s about time someone stood up to these constant violations.
Gutting the farming industry in Texas is no small feat, especially when water is the lifeblood of agriculture. The U.S. Commissioner of the International Boundary and Water Commission confirmed that Mexico is massively behind on its commitments. With only a fraction of the required water delivered, it’s less of a partnership and more of a one-sided relationship that left Texas farmers high and dry once again.
Amidst the water crisis and failed treaty compliance, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum attempts to play the victim card, citing drought conditions for the inability to provide Texas with its fair share. Instead of caving in, Trump is prepared to escalate the situation, threatening tariffs and possibly even sanctions until Mexico fulfills its treaty obligations. It’s high time that Mexico realizes that agreements mean something, especially when livelihoods hang in the balance. The farmers of South Texas deserve better, and Trump is ready to give it to them—water for Texas, or else.