The Department of Homeland Security Urges Migrant Caravan to Avoid U.S. Border

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a cautionary statement to a large migrant caravan traveling through Mexico toward the U.S.-Mexico border. DHS emphasized that the United States Border Patrol (USBP) is actively collaborating with international partners to track the caravan’s progress and any emerging developments.

According to DHS, under President Trump’s direction and Homeland Secretary Mullin’s leadership, the border has remained closed and secure for the past 16 months. The caravan comprises hundreds of individuals from countries like Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, Ecuador, and Haiti. Reports indicate that the caravan left San Pedro Sula, Honduras, on September 20.

Migrants from various nationalities continue their trek north, having reached the outskirts of Tapachula, Mexico, as of October 1, 2025. DHS has warned migrants that the previous policy of “catch and release” has been discontinued, and the current border policy under President Biden has been firmly enforced.

The DHS statement asserts that any attempt to enter the U.S. illegally will result in apprehension, prosecution, and deportation. This announcement was made during a heated midterm election period where the Trump administration’s strict stance on illegal immigration remains a key debate topic.

President Trump has directed comprehensive deportation initiatives and widespread crackdowns, leading to historically low illegal immigration rates since his tenure began. Some migrants expressed their desire for enhanced economic prospects in the U.S.

Honduran migrant José Zelaya, traveling with seven relatives, said to the Spanish-language news agency EFE that their goal is to reach the United States, according to the Houston Chronicle. Zelaya mentioned that the caravan lacks organized leadership, attributing “hunger and need” as the primary motivations for their journey.