In a recent interview, former ICE Director Tom Homan issued a stark warning about the escalating violence at the U.S.-Mexico border, emphasizing the growing threat posed by Mexican drug cartels. As President Trump intensifies his border security measures, including deploying military forces and designating cartels as terrorist organizations, Homan predicts that the cartels will retaliate with violence.
Cartels’ Retaliation and Border Security Measures
Homan highlighted reports of cartels planning attacks on U.S. Border Patrol agents using explosives in response to the crackdown. He explained that the cartels are desperate to maintain their lucrative operations, which include drug smuggling, human trafficking, and sex trafficking. With the border becoming increasingly secure, their profits are being threatened, leading to internal conflicts and heightened aggression.
President Trump recently announced that Mexico has committed to deploying 10,000 of its best military soldiers to the northern border to combat cartel activity. Homan expressed cautious optimism about this collaboration, noting that while Mexican military forces were effective during Trump’s first administration, corruption within their ranks remains a concern.
Designating Cartels as Terrorist Organizations
Homan strongly supports the designation of cartels as terrorist organizations, calling it a “game changer.” He pointed out that cartels have killed more Americans than all terrorist organizations combined, and this new designation allows the U.S. government to target their operations, infrastructure, and finances more aggressively.
“Taking away their money is key,” Homan said. “Without funding, they can’t buy weapons or expand their operations.” He also warned that any harm to U.S. Border Patrol agents or soldiers would provoke a swift and forceful response from President Trump, potentially wiping out cartel operations entirely.
Impact on Fentanyl and Human Trafficking
Homan emphasized the broader implications of securing the border, including a significant reduction in fentanyl-related deaths in the U.S. and a decrease in human trafficking. He noted that the cartels are currently making record profits from these illegal activities, but tighter border security will disrupt their business model.
Partnerships with Mexico and El Salvador
Homan also discussed the importance of international partnerships in combating cartel violence. He praised El Salvador’s president for his efforts to dismantle MS-13 and other criminal organizations, noting that the country has offered to incarcerate dangerous U.S. citizens and criminal migrants in its prisons.
“El Salvador has been a great partner,” Homan said. “Their willingness to take back MS-13 members and criminal aliens we arrest here is a significant step forward.”
A Call for Vigilance
As the U.S. continues to strengthen its border security, Homan warned that violence from the cartels is inevitable. However, he expressed confidence in the preparedness of U.S. Border Patrol agents and the military, urging the cartels to think twice before escalating their attacks.
“President Trump is moving at lightning speed,” Homan concluded. “His actions are proving every day that he is the greatest president of my lifetime.”
