On Monday, the Trump administration unveiled "Operation River Wall," an unprecedented mobilization of the Coast Guard aimed at strengthening security in the Rio Grande Valley, a key stretch of the southern border between the United States and Mexico. According to an official statement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the operation intends to "safeguard the Rio Grande against illegal immigration, narcoterrorists, and other criminal activities" by deploying over 100 vessels and hundreds of personnel under the command of the Rio Grande Coast Guard Forces.
"President Trump has achieved the most secure southern border in U.S. history in record time, and now our goal is to ensure it remains that way for the long haul," declared Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in a DHS-issued statement. In a post on her official X account, Noem reaffirmed the Republican government's commitment to immigration control and emphasized the Coast Guard's role in this new phase of border defense.
"The men and women of the Coast Guard are experts in defending America's maritime borders. Now, the Rio Grande Coast Guard Forces and Operation River Wall will act as a force multiplier in combating illegal immigration," the official stated, highlighting the agency's experience since 1790. Acting Coast Guard Commander Admiral Kevin E. Lunday confirmed that the operation would focus on controlling, securing, and defending approximately 265 miles of the Rio Grande Valley using rapid response vessels, command and control systems, and specialized tactical technology.
This initiative is part of a series of recent measures spearheaded by the Trump administration to toughen immigration policy. The DHS noted that in the past five months, no illegal immigrants have been released within the country, and fiscal year 2025 marked the lowest number of arrests at the southwest border since 1970. Furthermore, on October 10, the government announced $4.5 billion in contracts to construct 230 miles of a "Smart Wall," integrating steel barriers, underwater sensors, cameras, detection systems, and patrol lights.
Operation River Wall thus reinforces the White House's political message that "America is regaining control of its southern border," amid escalating migration tensions and criticism from human rights organizations denouncing what they see as an excessively militarized approach to the immigration issue.
Key Aspects of Operation River Wall
What is the aim of Operation River Wall?
Operation River Wall aims to enhance security in the Rio Grande Valley by deploying the Coast Guard to prevent illegal immigration, tackle narcoterrorism, and combat other criminal activities.
How will the Coast Guard contribute to the operation?
The Coast Guard will deploy over 100 vessels and hundreds of personnel to secure approximately 265 miles of the Rio Grande Valley, utilizing advanced tactical technology.
What recent measures has the Trump administration taken regarding immigration policy?
Recent measures include not releasing illegal immigrants within the country over the past five months and announcing a $4.5 billion investment in a "Smart Wall" along the border.