President Joe Biden and Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador recently spoke about cooperating on migration policy, with a focus on managing and controlling unauthorized border crossings. The call, initiated by Biden, highlighted the efforts of both countries to strengthen operational efficiency and protect human rights at the U.S.-Mexico border. The leaders directed their national security aides to implement concrete measures immediately to reduce the number of unauthorized border crossings, although specific details were not provided.
In light of the failure of border legislation in Congress earlier this year, the White House is considering the possibility of Biden issuing an executive order on asylum rules to address the influx of migrants at the southern border. This potential action would utilize the president’s authority under Section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act to block the entry of certain immigrants deemed detrimental to the national interest. Despite ongoing discussions and deliberations, no decision has been made by the Biden administration on the implementation of any executive actions.
Officials have been exploring various options for addressing the issue of illegal border crossings, but the administration has not deemed the situation urgent enough to require immediate action by the president. The number of unauthorized border crossings has decreased since reaching a record high of 250,000 in December, largely due to increased enforcement efforts by Mexican officials. López Obrador commended the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to allow Border Patrol agents to cut razor wire installed by Texas along the border in an effort to deter migration.
The joint statement issued after the call between Biden and López Obrador emphasized the ongoing collaboration between the two countries in managing migration and bolstering operational efficiency at the border. While progress has been made in controlling unauthorized migration and discouraging the use of illegal methods to move between countries, both leaders are committed to further reducing the number of unauthorized border crossings. The policies being considered would prioritize the protection of human rights while addressing the challenges posed by migration.
As discussions continue on potential executive actions to address the situation at the U.S.-Mexico border, Biden and López Obrador remain in regular communication to coordinate their efforts. The Mexican leader praised the partnership between the two countries and the progress that has been achieved in controlling unauthorized migration. Despite the complex and sensitive nature of the issue, both leaders are committed to finding solutions that balance border security with respect for human rights. The White House continues to assess the situation and explore all available options for addressing the challenges posed by unauthorized migration.
