Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Todd Young (R-IN), and nine Republican colleagues have written a letter to President Joe Biden expressing deep concern about the rise in terrorists crossing the southern border and asking for plans to bolster border and internal security measures.

The senators highlight the alarming increase in illegal crossings and the spike in Border Patrol apprehensions of individuals matching the U.S. terror watchlist. They point out that in fiscal year 2023 alone, 169 migrants with positive terrorism watchlist matches were apprehended along the southern border, representing a tenfold increase from the figures reported in fiscal year 2021.

"While the exact affiliations and identities of these individuals remain classified, the marked increase is alarming," the senators wrote. "Even if these apprehensions represent a minority, the potential devastation from a single individual with malign intentions cannot be overstated."

The senators, including Cassidy and Young, are joined by U.S. Senators Rick Scott (R-FL), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Mike Braun (R-IN), Jim Risch (R-ID), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Mike Crapo (R-ID), and Joni Ernst (R-IA) in signing the letter.

In the letter, the senators request a senior-level classified briefing from the Biden Administration to discuss plans and intentions to support the security of the homeland. They ask for clarification on several key points, including changes in threats to the homeland in light of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, proactive initiatives to bolster security protocols at the southern border, measures to address potential blind spots in detecting and neutralizing threats, and collaboration with neighboring countries to share information and intelligence against designated terrorist organizations.

The senators also emphasize the importance of tracking and blocking financial channels that may support terrorist activities and infiltration at the northern and southern borders and ports of entry.

The letter highlights the recent devastating attack by Hamas against Israel and its ties to entities such as the Iranian government and Hezbollah. The senators stress the necessity for a comprehensive assessment of Hamas' potential to reach targets beyond the immediate region, especially considering its active publication of digital propaganda capable of reaching audiences beyond the Middle East.

FBI Director Christopher Wray's comments on the challenges posed by "copycat" actors are also mentioned in the letter, noting the increase in reported threats and the need to remain vigilant against radicalized individuals within the country.

In conclusion, the senators urge President Biden to reassess, reinforce, and bolster border and internal security measures. They request that senior administration officials brief Members of Congress with any findings and recommendations by November 8 to ensure a coordinated and informed response.

The letter emphasizes the importance of proactive action to prioritize the safety and well-being of the nation and its citizens in the face of potential threats.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-joins-colleagues-urging-president-biden-to-address-rise-in-terrorists-crossing-southern-border