Trump Administration Threatens Newark Airport International Travel Shutdown Over Immigration Dispute

The Trump administration is considering suspending international passenger and cargo processing at Newark Liberty International Airport as tensions escalate over immigration enforcement policies in northern New Jersey. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin warned that the federal government could take action soon if local law enforcement agencies continue refusing to cooperate with immigration officials.

Speaking on Fox News, Mullin said the administration may reassign Customs and Border Protection personnel away from Newark airport, a major hub for United Airlines near New York City. He argued that local police are not helping federal immigration officers safely access and exit a detention facility in New Jersey. According to Mullin, if customs officers are removed from Newark, international flights arriving at the airport would no longer be able to process passengers entering the United States.

The warning has raised concerns across the airline industry. U.S. carriers are reportedly contacting lawmakers and administration officials, fearing that halting customs operations at Newark airport could severely disrupt international travel, cargo transportation, and tourism. United Airlines declined to comment on the situation.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche described the proposal as an “extreme” option but said the administration must evaluate every possible response regarding sanctuary city policies. Earlier this week, Mullin also revealed that the administration is developing plans targeting other major airports located in sanctuary cities that oppose federal immigration crackdowns.

Cities listed by the Justice Department include New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, Seattle, Denver, Philadelphia, Newark, and San Francisco — all home to major international airports. The proposal comes just weeks before the FIFA World Cup events begin in the United States, with the final scheduled near Newark in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Travel industry groups strongly oppose the idea, warning that shutting down international processing at key airports would damage tourism, airline operations, and international commerce. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy also expressed reservations, stating that air travel should not be restricted because of political disagreements between federal and state governments.