Federal authorities have confirmed the apprehension and subsequent deportation of a Jordanian migrant suspected of terrorism. Mohammed Hasan Abdellatif Albana, 41, was detained near Lynden, Washington, close to the US-Canada border. While the exact timing and location of his entry into the US remain unclear, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Seattle identified Albana as a potential terrorist threat. He was deported back to Jordan on November 15th following immigration proceedings.

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges at the northern border. Drew H. Bostock, Field Office Director for ERO Seattle, emphasized their commitment to removing individuals who pose national security risks, highlighting the agency's dedication to protecting communities in the Pacific Northwest.

Under the Biden administration, border patrol agents have encountered over 300 individuals listed on terror watchlists attempting to cross both the northern and southern borders, according to Customs and Border Patrol data. A recent report by House Judiciary Committee Republicans reveals that of the over 250 individuals on the terrorist watchlist encountered at the southwest border between fiscal years 2021 and 2023, at least 99 were released into US communities. At least 34 remain in custody but have not been deported.

The report also indicates that immigration judges granted bond to at least 27 migrants on the watchlist who entered illegally. Additionally, tens of thousands of migrants from countries considered potential national security risks have been encountered, including individuals from Afghanistan, China, Iran, Syria, and Uzbekistan.

Furthermore, the report highlights the concern of potentially numerous terrorists who may have evaded Border Patrol entirely, adding to the estimated two million "gotaways" since the beginning of the Biden administration. Information provided to the committee in June revealed encounters with individuals on the terror watchlist from 36 different countries, including several with known active terrorist presences.