The northern U.S. border is experiencing a surge in arrests of individuals on the terrorist watchlist, with 44 apprehended this fiscal year alone, according to CBP data. This includes the recent capture of Jordanian national Mohammad Hasan Abdellatif Albana, who illegally crossed into Washington State from Canada.
Albana was identified as a known or suspected terrorist and deported to Jordan on Nov. 15. His case reflects a broader trend of increasing terrorist-related activity at the northern border, which accounts for the majority of KST apprehensions in the U.S.
Since 2021, 1,216 individuals on the terrorist watchlist have been caught at the northern border, compared to 687 at the southern border. Despite these alarming numbers, the northern border remains less secure, with fewer agents and resources available to monitor its 5,525-mile expanse.
Tom Homan, President-elect Donald Trump’s border czar, has pledged to address these vulnerabilities. “The northern border has been ignored for too long,” Homan said. “We will secure it and ensure the safety of American citizens.”
The vast size and minimal infrastructure of the northern border make it a prime route for illegal crossings. Border Patrol agents warn that many individuals go undetected, with one agent often covering hundreds of miles.
The Trump administration has signaled its intent to prioritize border security, focusing on both northern and southern borders to address growing threats.
