The growing concerns over border security between the United States and Canada have become a focal point, with critics highlighting the vulnerabilities along the northern border that could be exploited by terrorists and criminals. Tom Homan, who served as President Donald Trump’s border czar, has been particularly vocal in pointing out the risks posed by what he sees as Canada’s inadequate border security, warning that terrorists could use the porous border to enter the United States.
Security Vulnerabilities Highlighted
Homan, who previously served as the acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), pointed out the risks posed by “special interest aliens”—individuals from countries with known ties to terrorism. He believes that Canada’s weaker border security infrastructure has made it an attractive route for illegal immigrants, including those who could pose a national security threat.
He specifically flagged the fact that Canada had not taken border security seriously for more than a decade, despite rising concerns. This has raised alarms in the U.S., especially after incidents like the arrest of a Pakistani national in Quebec in September 2023, who was planning an attack on Jewish people in New York.
In response to these security risks, Homan stated that border security along the Canada-U.S. border would be a priority for the incoming Trump administration, with a particular focus on combating human smuggling and irregular crossings from Canada. Homan warned of “tough conversations” with Ottawa to address these vulnerabilities.
Surge in Illegal Border Crossings
A sharp increase in illegal border crossings has exacerbated concerns about security along the northern border. The U.S. Border Patrol reported that more than 19,000 individuals from 97 countries were apprehended in the Swanton Sector, which covers parts of Vermont and New York, in just one year. This surge has surpassed the total number of arrests made over the previous 17 years, highlighting the growing challenge.
Illegal crossings have become a lucrative but dangerous business. Organized crime groups operating in Canada charge between $1,500 and $6,000 per person to smuggle individuals into the U.S., often through remote areas, including rivers, farmland, and forests. Unfortunately, some of these crossings have resulted in tragic deaths. Notably, in 2023, two families—one from India and the other from Romania—drowned in the St. Lawrence River while attempting to cross the border.
Additionally, India has emerged as a leading source of illegal border crossings. US Customs and Border Protection reported record numbers of arrests of individuals from India, with 96,917 attempts at illegal entry into the U.S. in 2023. This has raised alarms, particularly as India has seen a significant uptick in both economic migration and human trafficking activity directed toward North America.
Trudeau Government Under Fire
The concerns voiced by Homan also tie into broader criticisms of the Justin Trudeau administration’s handling of border security. India has raised similar concerns, accusing Canada of being a safe haven for Khalistani terrorists and failing to act on security risks posed by these groups, especially with respect to targeted attacks on Indian nationals.
The growing presence of Khalistani separatists in Canada and their influence over certain communities have also drawn criticism from both India and the U.S. Trudeau’s reluctance to deport individuals linked to terrorism or criminal activities has fueled discontent.
Human Smuggling and Immigration Pressures
Alongside terrorism concerns, human trafficking has become a growing issue at the Canada-U.S. border. The U.S. government has called for greater cooperation between the two nations to combat human smuggling. In response to the surge in irregular crossings, Canada reinstated visa requirements for Mexican nationals, who were a significant factor in the recent wave of illegal border crossings, particularly in New York and Vermont.
Homan, who has a personal connection to the region, stated that his commitment to tightening border security was personal. He vowed to carry out what he called “the largest deportation operation” in U.S. history, emphasizing his dedication to strict enforcement of immigration laws.
Call for Stronger U.S.-Canada Collaboration
The growing security risks on the northern border have led to calls for a stronger partnership between Canada and the U.S. to address illegal crossings and human trafficking. Both nations are under pressure to tighten border controls and improve coordination on national security, particularly as Canada’s lax approach to certain border security issues is increasingly seen as a vulnerability for the U.S.
Homan’s comments reflect a broader shift in U.S. immigration policy, where border security—both northern and southern—remains a top priority. As President Trump prepares for his second term, he has made it clear that securing the nation’s borders, tackling illegal immigration, and combating terrorism will be among his administration’s foremost goals.
Conclusion
The security concerns raised by Tom Homan regarding the Canada-U.S. border reflect a growing tension between the two countries over border management and national security. With both human smuggling and terrorist threats on the rise, there are calls for stronger U.S.-Canada collaboration to secure the northern border. As Canada faces increasing pressure from both the U.S. and India, the future of its border security policies will likely become a major point of contention in international relations.
