Trump Admin Signs Urgent Deportation Deal with Belize

UPDATE: The Trump administration has just announced a significant bilateral agreement with Belize aimed at tackling illegal immigration to the United States and establishing new pathways for asylum seekers. The State Department confirmed the signing of a Safe Third Country agreement on August 26, 2024, allowing asylum seekers currently in the U.S. to resettle in Belize and pursue their cases from there.

This urgent move is part of an aggressive strategy to curb illegal immigration, with over 500,000 illegal migrants already deported since President Trump returned to office. The agreement was confirmed through a statement from the Belizean government, which emphasized that while they welcome the deal, they retain the right to reject individuals at their discretion.

In a social media post, the State Department’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs stated,

“Thank you to the Government of Belize for signing a Safe Third Country Agreement — an important milestone in ending illegal immigration, shutting down abuse of our nation’s asylum system, and reinforcing our shared commitment to tackling challenges in our hemisphere together.”

As the immigration crackdown intensifies, the White House is actively seeking cooperation from various foreign governments to facilitate the deportation process. Belize’s Prime Minister, Johnny Briceno, confirmed the deal, but highlighted that the country will enforce strict security measures, including comprehensive screenings for all transferees.

Belizean officials stated, “No person who is deemed to be a threat to public safety or national security will be allowed to enter or stay in Belize.” This agreement will not only affect those seeking asylum but also aims to deter illegal crossings into the U.S.

Opposition leaders in Belize, including Tracy Panton, have voiced concerns about the implications of the agreement. Panton described it as a “matter of deep national concern,” pointing out that Belize lacks the necessary institutional capacity and resources to manage the responsibilities that come with such an agreement effectively.

The agreement must now be ratified by the Belizean Senate before it can take effect, remaining valid for at least two years unless terminated by either party.

As this situation develops, the implications for both U.S. and Belizean immigration policies remain significant. It’s a critical moment that may reshape how asylum seekers navigate their options. The world will be watching closely as this agreement unfolds and its impact on migration patterns becomes clearer.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.