A fresh immigration threat now looms over sanctuary cities after the Trump administration reportedly threatened to disrupt international travel at major US airports.
Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said the government is considering suspending customs and immigration processing at airports located in sanctuary cities. The warning reportedly applies to airports in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, Newark, and Philadelphia.
If that happens, international passengers and cargo operations could face major disruptions. Experts say flights may still operate, but without customs officers, airports could struggle to process travelers entering the United States.
The threat is linked to the administration’s growing fight with sanctuary cities that refuse to fully cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. The Trump administration has repeatedly argued that such cities protect undocumented immigrants and weaken border policies.
However, the proposal is already facing pushback with officials reportedly warning the government against shutting down air travel over political disagreements. Some US employers and the travel industry are also worried the move could damage tourism, business travel, and airport operations.
Despite the panic online, no final decision has been announced yet. Mullin himself reportedly admitted that the move is currently only “an option” under consideration.
Still, the warning alone is now creating fear among Indians workers, students, and tourists who depend on these airports every day.
