Marines deploy to southern border to support Trump’s “Remain in Mexico” policy, with 500 troops positioned at border patrol stations in California.
SAN DIEGO — U.S. Marines have started deployment to the southern border, marking a significant military intervention in response to border security concerns, officials confirmed Wednesday.
A Camp Pendleton spokesperson confirmed an initial deployment of 500 personnel strategically positioned at the Border Patrol station in Imperial Beach and near Brown Field Airport in Otay Mesa.
The deployment follows President Donald Trump’s pledge on Monday to reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy, which requires asylum seekers to wait in Mexico during immigration court proceedings. Trump stated he would “end the practice of catch and release” and “send troops to the southern border to repel the disastrous invasion of our country.”
Military convoys equipped with armored vehicles and aircraft, including Osprey helicopters, were observed moving into position. U.S. Northern Command has directed Marines to execute specific border security missions, though military personnel declined to discuss operational details.
Customs and Border Protection has temporarily suspended immigration appointment applications as part of the broader border security initiative.
The deployment represents an escalation of military presence in border management efforts.
