Migrant anxiety peaks as Trump moves forward with historic deportation operation

President Donald Trump has stated that the deportation of illegal migrants from the United States is progressing smoothly, with a focus on removing the most dangerous individuals — hardened criminals.

Speaking after his arrival in North Carolina, Trump addressed reporters about the ongoing deportation efforts, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media sources.

“Deportation is going very well. We are getting rid of terrible, hardened criminals. These are murderers, these are the worst kind of people there are. Getting rid of them first and foremost,” Trump said, emphasizing that criminals are being prioritised for removal.

However, the broader issue of deportation has sparked concerns, particularly for American schoolchildren. According to US media, over 730,000 children could face the threat of deportation, a fear amplified by Trump’s administration's statement that immigration services would not avoid schools, hospitals, or churches. This announcement has led to widespread unease, with parents fearful of letting their children leave home.

In schools, administrators are worried about the potential for children to miss extended periods of class. Such absences could significantly harm students' social and academic development.

In Philadelphia, once a sanctuary city for migrants, the streets have become eerily empty. Residents, particularly undocumented migrants, now live in constant fear of deportation. One local, who wished to remain anonymous, shared their anxiety: “The fear is there. It’s in your head, it’s with you always. Even when you go out on the street and you see someone looking at you, you start to worry. Who are they? Maybe they’re snitching on me?”

Philadelphia’s reputation as a safe haven for migrants has eroded as the threat of deportation grows. According to the Office of Homeland Security Statistics, there are approximately 11 million undocumented migrants living in the United States. Despite local protections, the growing anxiety among undocumented migrants is palpable.

The situation escalated following Trump’s executive order on January 20, which declared a state of emergency at the US-Mexico border. The order allows the deployment of troops to the southern border to address what Trump has called the “catastrophic invasion” of illegal migrants. The president has consistently called for a tougher stance on immigration, asserting that his administration is preparing for what he claims will be the largest deportation operation in US history.

The ongoing migration crisis has become a central issue in the partisan struggle within the United States, further fueling tensions over the country’s immigration policies.

By Tamilla Hasanova