Republicans Set Deadline for Solutions to Terrorists Entering Through Southern Border

The recent Hamas terror attack on Israel has raised concerns about the safety at America’s southern border and who is allowed to enter. According to data from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency, there were 169 individuals on the terror watchlist who were stopped at the border in fiscal year 2023, compared to zero in fiscal year 2019. Additionally, over 20,000 Chinese nationals crossed the border in fiscal year 2023.

In response to these alarming numbers, a group of more than 20 congressional Republicans have written a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, urging them to work together to secure the border. Led by Missouri Republicans Sen. Eric Schmitt and Rep. Mark Alford, the letter states that it’s high time the administration takes action to protect American citizens in light of the threats posed by China, Russia, Iran, and other adversaries.

The letter also expresses concerns about Iran-backed Hamas, Hezbollah, and other terrorist groups potentially taking advantage of the southern border to launch attacks on American soil. The lawmakers are requesting information on whether any members of these groups have crossed the border and how the threats of terrorists have been addressed. They also want to know the number of terrorist attacks that have been prevented by interception at the border.

Another major concern highlighted in the letter is the presence of Chinese nationals with ties to the Chinese Communist Party crossing the border and attempting to access U.S. military installations. This comes amid increasing worries about Chinese spies infiltrating the United States. The lawmakers are seeking information about the number of Chinese nationals tied to the Chinese Communist Party who have crossed the border and how many of them have tried to access military facilities.

The lawmakers emphasize that the security of the country is of utmost importance and urge the administration to fulfill its constitutional duty to provide for the common defense. They are requesting answers to their questions by December 13.

Overall, the Republicans are calling for immediate action to secure the southern border and protect American citizens from potential terrorist threats and foreign infiltration.