When it comes to controversial decisions, Donald Trump is no stranger to taking bold steps. On Wednesday evening, he announced a new plan that left many people talking: holding detained immigrants at the infamous military prison at Guantanamo Bay.
Yes, you read that right—Guantanamo Bay, a name that brings to mind images of high-security cells and some of the most debated practices in recent U.S. history.
A New Use for Guantanamo?
This announcement came as Trump signed the Laken Riley Act, a law mandating the detention of undocumented immigrants accused of specific crimes. But here’s the twist: with an expected surge in detainees, Trump directed the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Defense to prepare Guantanamo to house up to 30,000 additional detainees.
“Most people don’t even know about it,” Trump said, referencing the Cuban prison facility. “We have 30,000 beds in Guantanamo to detain the worst criminal illegal aliens. That’s a tough place to get out of.”
For context, the U.S. has operated a base at Guantanamo Bay since 1903. After the September 11 attacks, it gained infamy as a prison for terrorism suspects and “enemy combatants.” Over the years, it has faced significant criticism for holding individuals without charges and allegations of torture. Even President Barack Obama vowed to shut it down during his administration, though that never happened.
A Divisive Move
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel wasted no time condemning the decision, calling it an “act of brutality.” He accused the U.S. of “housing migrants next to the well-known prisons of torture and illegal detention.”
It’s worth noting that Guantanamo already has a migrant processing center, but nothing on the scale of what Trump envisions. Critics say this move sets a dangerous precedent, while supporters argue it’s a logical step to manage an overwhelming influx of undocumented immigrants.
A Temporary Solution or a Major Shift?
Newly confirmed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth backed Trump’s plan during an appearance on Fox News’ The Will Cain Show.
“This is a temporary transit solution,” Hegseth explained. “It’s already part of Guantanamo’s mission. We’re preparing for the possibility of expanding mass deportations to humanely process and return illegal immigrants to their home countries.”
The debate is far from over. On one hand, some see this as a necessary step to address illegal immigration. On the other, critics fear this move could reignite old controversies tied to Guantanamo Bay’s reputation.
