The Pentagon has established a second military zone near El Paso, Texas, as part of the Trump administration’s border enforcement efforts, despite a sharp decline in illegal crossings.

This new zone extends from Fort Bliss to Fort Hancock and is intended to deter illegal activity.

Critics warn it further militarizes the border and criminalizes asylum seekers, while experts note it exploits a legal loophole to involve the military in civilian law enforcement, The Texas Tribune has reported.

Migrant deaths in the El Paso sector have continued to rise, with at least 176 reported in 2024.

Written by B.C. Begley