Trump Proposes Migrant Detention Facility at Guantanamo Bay

President Donald Trump has unveiled plans to construct a new migrant detention facility at the Guantanamo Bay naval base in Cuba, capable of housing up to 30,000 migrants, whom he classifies as "the worst criminal illegal aliens." This announcement came during a signing ceremony for the Laken Riley Act, a law mandating that undocumented immigrants apprehended for serious crimes be detained pending trial.

Trump emphasized the independent nature of the facility from the notorious military prison also located in Guantanamo, asserting that it will ensure "the highest" detention standards. The detainees may be transported directly from sea interceptions by the Coast Guard. This announcement has sparked outrage, especially from the Cuban government, which labeled the action as illegal and reminiscent of past abuses. The plan is seen as an expansion of current operations, aiming to double the US's capacity to detain undocumented migrants who have been accused of various crimes.

The idea of using Guantanamo Bay for migrant detention has drawn criticism from human rights advocates for its historical context of misuse and alleged inhumane conditions. While the administration seeks congressional funding for the facility's expansion, specifics on the timeline and costs remain unclear. The proposal stands amidst broader concerns as the Trump administration intensifies immigration enforcement and control measures.