The Trump administration has commenced large-scale deportation operations, sending a clear signal about its immigration policy. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the deportations, sharing images of individuals boarding military aircraft. One flight, carrying 80 people, left Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, destined for Guatemala.

Leavitt emphasized the administration's stance on illegal immigration, stating that those entering the U.S. illegally will face serious repercussions. Representative Tony Gonzales, a Texas Republican, praised the swift action, contrasting it with the previous administration's approach.

The Department of Defense has deployed additional troops to the border region, reinforcing security measures. Acting Secretary of Defense Robert Salesses confirmed the deployment of military aircraft to facilitate the deportation of over 5,000 individuals apprehended by Customs and Border Protection. The Department of Homeland Security and the State Department are collaborating on the operation.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been actively involved in the operation, arresting over 530 individuals, including child sex offenders and gang members. These arrests follow 460 others made since Trump's inauguration. In Newark, New Jersey, ICE agents detained several workers at a fish market, sparking criticism from Mayor Ras Baraka, who condemned the operation and questioned the agents' adherence to the Fourth Amendment.

Baraka defended the rights of those detained, including a military veteran whose documentation was reportedly questioned. He pledged to protect civil and human rights in Newark. The mayor's strong reaction underscores the controversy surrounding the administration's immigration policies.