Washington, D.C. — July 13, 2026 — The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have announced that U.S. Border Patrol recorded zero releases of individuals apprehended at the southwest border into the U.S. interior for the 13th consecutive month.
According to official data released on June 19, 2026, every person encountered and apprehended at the border has been processed through detention, removal, or deportation proceedings rather than being released pending further action. The milestone reflects the Trump administration’s continued emphasis on strict border enforcement measures.
President Donald Trump highlighted the development in public remarks. “For the past 13 months, zero illegal aliens have been admitted into the United States. Zero,” he said. “We are removing murderers, gang members, drug dealers, and dangerous criminals by the thousands. We have the strongest, most secure border in the history of our country.”
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin described the record as evidence of sustained policy success. “Thirteen straight months of ZERO releases at the border,” Mullin stated. “Under President Donald Trump’s leadership, we are delivering the most secure border in American history.”
CBP Commissioner Rodney S. Scott drew a direct comparison to prior years. “The U.S. Border Patrol released zero illegal aliens into our country again this month, unlike April 2024 when more than 68,000 were released under President Biden,” Scott said. “Every minute of every day President Trump’s border security policies are making every American safer.”
Officials attribute the results to a series of executive actions and legislative support implemented after President Trump took office. These include expanded physical barriers, reinstatement of the “Remain in Mexico” policy, termination of certain parole programs, increased detention capacity, expedited removal processes, and diplomatic efforts with partner nations to address migration flows and fentanyl trafficking at the source. The Secure America Act has provided additional resources for personnel, technology, and infrastructure.
Data cited by CBP indicates that daily apprehension averages have declined more than 90% from peaks recorded during the Biden administration. Authorities also report significant increases in drug seizures and the removal of individuals with criminal records. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) continues interior enforcement operations focused on public safety threats.
The announcement has drawn praise from Republican lawmakers, including members of the House Judiciary Committee, who described the sustained zero-release period as a clear policy outcome. Democrats have not yet issued formal responses to the latest figures.
The Trump administration maintains that these enforcement measures have reduced strain on local communities, eased pressure on public services, and enhanced overall border security. Official statistics for July encounters are expected in coming weeks.
