Record Number of FBI Terror Watchlist Suspects Caught Crossing US Border Illegally in 2023

Surge in illegal crossings at U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders leading to record numbers of individuals on FBI terror watchlist seized, creating bipartisan alarm amid tension in the Middle East.

• Border patrol apprehended over 172 suspects on the FBI terror watchlist who illegally crossed into the U.S. from Mexico or Canada in the 2023 fiscal year, a significant increase from previous years.
• Despite the increase, people on the terror watchlist only composed 0.008% of the over 2 million illegal immigrants arrested during the year.
• Although more individuals on the watchlist were caught at ports of entry, those attempting to cross illegally and evade capture pose the greatest concern.
• Increased presence of watchlist individuals has drawn bipartisan concern, especially with mounting tension and violence in the Middle East.
• Republicans blame the surge in illegal crossings on the Biden administration's lax border policies, while Democrats have increased funding for border security amidst the growing crisis.

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