Agents of the Texas National Guard, responsible for guarding the United States-Mexico border, were recorded firing rubber bullets at migrants who were near the Rio Bravo, attempting to cross into American territory.
The images, shared by Univisión El Paso, show agents firing near the undocumented individuals in a notably persuasive manner, not intended to harm their physical integrity.
Additionally, in the video, everyone appears to be young and adult men.
These actions have been defended on several occasions by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who has argued that they are part of the state's security strategy to manage the illegal crossing of migrants.
Abbott has promoted aggressive strategies to control the southern border of the United States, with controversial measures such as the installation of floating barriers in the Rio Grande, the deployment of the National Guard, and Operation Lone Star, a program that allocates state resources to arrest and prosecute migrants on charges of trespassing.
These actions have been criticized both nationally and internationally for their impact on human rights and bilateral cooperation with Mexico.
The migration crisis in this region is not new, but it has escalated in recent years due to an increase in the number of people coming from countries like Cuba, Venezuela, Haiti, and Central America, who are fleeing violence and adverse economic conditions in their home countries.
On the other hand, promises and statements from elected President Donald Trump have rekindled fears of stricter immigration policies. Trump has reiterated his commitment to implementing tougher immigration measures once he takes office.
Among its proposals are the implementation of mass deportations, the construction of additional sections of the border wall, and the elimination of birthright citizenship for the children of undocumented immigrants.
These measures have raised concerns among human rights advocates and migrant communities, who fear an increase in deportations and family separations.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Immigration Situation at the U.S.-Mexico Border
Why are Texas agents firing rubber bullets at migrants?
Texas National Guard agents fire rubber bullets as part of a security strategy to control illegal crossings by migrants. These actions are defended as persuasive measures to deter unlawful entry, rather than to cause physical harm. However, they have faced criticism for their impact on human rights.
What actions has the Texas government taken to control the border?
The Texas government, led by Governor Greg Abbott, has implemented several measures such as the installation of floating barriers in the Rio Bravo, the deployment of the National Guard, and Operation Lone Star. These actions aim to detain and prosecute migrants on charges of trespassing, and they have faced criticism for their severity and questionable effectiveness.
How has Donald Trump's election influenced immigration policies?
Donald Trump's election has heightened expectations for stricter immigration policies. His proposals include mass deportations, the construction of additional sections of the border wall, and the elimination of birthright citizenship. These policies have raised concerns about their potential impact on human rights and social cohesion.
What is the current situation of Cuban migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border?
Cuban migrants are among the groups that cross the border illegally between the U.S. and Mexico. In September 2024, the arrival of 9,315 Cubans was recorded, indicating a decrease in migration flow. The largest number of crossings is attributed to the economic and political situation in Cuba, which has led to a significant exodus in recent years.
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