Over 1.7 million migrants identified as "special interest aliens" encountered at the U.S. border during the Biden administration

The House Judiciary Committee’s report indicates that these SIAs are primarily from nations associated with terrorism or significant security risks, including Afghanistan, Iran, and Syria. The report highlights a significant increase in encounters with SIAs, with numbers rising from approximately 98,000 in FY 2021 to over 500,000 in FY 2024. Despite the Biden administration’s assertions of improved border security measures, critics argue that the lack of thorough vetting for these migrants could jeopardize national safety. For instance, the report cites the case of a migrant with potential terror ties who was released into the U.S. before being rearrested by DHS. This situation underscores the ongoing debate about the balance between humanitarian immigration policies and national security imperatives.

Special Interest Aliens Defined

“Special interest aliens” are defined by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as non-U.S. persons from countries that may have conditions promoting terrorism. The identification of these individuals is based on travel patterns and origin countries that are known to pose security threats.

Rising Encounters

The increase in SIA encounters is alarming, with the House Judiciary Committee documenting a surge from 98,000 in FY 2021 to 531,768 in FY 2024. This trend raises significant questions about the adequacy of current screening processes, especially given that many of these migrants come from countries that do not share criminal history data with the U.S.

Implications for National Security

The report emphasizes the risks associated with the release of SIAs into the U.S. without thorough vetting. Officials have expressed concerns about the inability to adequately assess the backgrounds of these migrants, as many come from countries lacking cooperation with U.S. law enforcement. The case of Mohammad Kharwin, who was released despite potential terror ties, exemplifies these risks and highlights the need for improved immigration policies that prioritize national security while addressing humanitarian concerns.