Overview

• A leaked DHS memo authored by Philip Hegseth, a senior adviser to Secretary Kristi Noem, liaison to the Defense Department, outlines plans to integrate U.S. military assets into domestic immigration enforcement for years to come.
• The memo pushes for a verbal agreement to allow DoD personnel to be detailed within ICE, CBP, with reciprocal detailing to support nationwide operational planning for immigration operations.
• It equates the threat from transnational gangs and cartels to Al Qaeda, ISIS operating inside U.S. cities, recasting immigration as a homeland security emergency.
• Experts have described the proposal as a “frightening escalation,” warning of widespread erosion of constitutional safeguards, civil liberties.
• DHS has declined to comment on the memo; Pentagon officials are reviewing requests to formalize detailing troops to ICE, CBP.