U.S. Immigration Authorities Plan Nationwide Operation Targeting Unaccompanied Minors
In a significant development, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is preparing for a nationwide operation to locate and potentially deport unaccompanied minors who entered the United States without a parent or legal guardian. According to sources familiar with the plan, the operation could begin as early as this week, though the exact timeline remains uncertain.
The Focus of the Operation
The operation will specifically target children who entered the U.S. without parents and do not have scheduled court dates. Immigration agents will also focus on cases where sponsors failed to respond to a mandatory 30-day welfare check-in conducted by the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Office of Refugee Resettlement.
How Unaccompanied Minors Are Processed
When unaccompanied minors cross the southern border, they are temporarily sheltered by HHS before being placed with sponsors in the United States. These sponsors are required to maintain contact with immigration authorities, and the government performs periodic check-ins to ensure the child’s well-being. However, a recent report suggests that thousands of children have not received proper immigration court notices, creating complications in their legal status.
Concerns Over Missing Court Notices
A report from the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) inspector general in August 2024 revealed that since fiscal year 2019, more than 291,000 unaccompanied children were released without being given official court dates. Both the first Trump administration and the Biden administration, at times, released children without notices to appear in court to alleviate overcrowding in refugee resettlement facilities.
Political Reactions and Implications
This move by ICE comes amid ongoing political debate over border policies. The Trump administration previously criticized the Biden administration for allegedly mishandling unaccompanied minors and allowing them to remain in the country without proper legal oversight. By increasing enforcement, immigration officials aim to address concerns over untracked migrant children and reinforce immigration laws.
What Happens Next?
If a judge determines that an unaccompanied child has no legal basis to remain in the U.S., they could be placed on a deportation path. While ICE is ramping up its efforts, immigrant rights groups are expected to challenge the plan, advocating for due process and protection for vulnerable children.
The unfolding situation raises serious questions about immigration policy, enforcement, and the long-term impact on affected children. As this operation develops, it will likely spark further debate over how the U.S. handles the complex issue of unaccompanied minors at the border.