Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has not released the identities of two Jordanian nationals who attempted to breach a Marine Corps base in Virginia, stating that it could affect their removal proceedings. The incident occurred on May 3 at Quantico Marine Corps Base in Virginia, where two individuals in a box truck claimed to be making a delivery to the post office. They were stopped at the gate by military police officers, who noticed that the driver ignored instructions and attempted to access the base. The individuals were later turned over to ICE and are now in ERO custody, but no further information has been provided about their cases.
Former officials noted that regulations generally prevent the disclosure of information related to asylum applications or credible fear determinations to third parties. This could mean that one or both of the nationals have asylum claims pending, and releasing their identities could impact efforts to remove them. However, there is an exception to this regulation if derogatory information about the individuals, such as prior criminal or terrorist charges or convictions, exists. In such cases, the Department of Homeland Security secretary has the authority to override the regulation and provide the information in the interest of national security.
Former Acting ICE Director Tom Homan emphasized the importance of prioritizing national security over potential impacts on asylum cases if derogatory information is present. He argued that the safety and security of the United States should take precedence over concerns about asylum claims, especially if there are indications of a terror threat. Similarly, former ICE field office director John Fabbricatore suggested that greater transparency from ICE regarding the methods of entry of the two individuals could help alleviate concerns and provide the public with more information.
There is speculation that the Jordanian nationals may have entered the U.S. illegally over the southern border, as ICE has not disclosed their immigration history. Fabbricatore raised concerns about the possibility that the individuals were “gotaways” who managed to enter the country undetected, which would be particularly alarming given their attempted breach of a military base. The lack of information about their immigration history and entry methods has raised questions about ICE’s handling of the case and the level of transparency surrounding the incident.
The White House declined to comment on the matter, deferring to law enforcement authorities. Acting ICE Director Patrick Lechleitner confirmed that the two nationals are in removal proceedings but did not provide further details. The decision to withhold the identities of the individuals has sparked debate among former officials, who believe that the public has a right to know if there are potential security risks associated with the case. The incident highlights concerns about border security and the need for enhanced measures to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive locations.
Overall, the attempted breach at the Marine Corps base in Virginia involving two Jordanian nationals has raised questions about ICE’s handling of the case, particularly regarding the disclosure of information and the level of transparency provided to the public. Former officials have emphasized the importance of prioritizing national security concerns over potential impacts on asylum cases, especially if derogatory information exists. The incident underscores broader issues related to border security and the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in preventing unauthorized access to sensitive facilities.
