U.S. under Trump Series: Tense situation at southern border as migrant caravan approaches U.S.

Tensions are rising at the United States’ southern border with Mexico, as the migrant caravan of thousands of people from central America is approaching the U.S. border, with some even trying to cross the fence, while some throwing bottles and rocks to border patrol guards.

The tensions intensified over the weekend after the U.S. closed down all traffic at the United States’ busiest port of entry following a gate rush attempt where hundreds of migrants tried to push past the Mexican police. After the main legal point of entry was closed, a large group of migrants assembled for a protest began to climb fences and break holes in the border wall in order to reach the U.S. After one group attempted to enter through an opening in the border fence, border patrol had to push them back with tear gas.

Currently, some 5000 migrants are camped near the port of entry between Tijuana in Mexico and San Diego in the United States, while the U.S. authorities are processing the asylum claims individually. The asylum seekers are currently housed in a sports stadium in Tijuana which has been converted into a makeshift shelter.

Amid the standoff, President Trump maintained his tough rhetoric towards the approaching Caravan and called on Mexican authorities to take the necessary steps, “Mexico should move the flag waving Migrants, many of whom are stone cold criminals, back to their countries. Do it by plane, do it by bus, do it anyway you want, but they are NOT coming into the U.S.A. We will close the Border permanently if need be. Congress, fund the WALL!” After making good on his promise to close the port of entry if necessary, “Migrants at the Southern Border will not be allowed into the United States until their claims are individually approved in court. We only will allow those who come into our Country legally. Other than that our very strong policy is Catch and Detain. No “Releasing” into the U.S...All will stay in Mexico. If for any reason it becomes necessary, we will CLOSE our Southern Border. There is no way that the United States will, after decades of abuse, put up with this costly and dangerous situation anymore!”