What Mexico Is Doing to the U.S. Border Shocks the World

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The Border Wall: A Massive Undertaking Under Siege by Smugglers and Critics

The U.S.-Mexico border spans an immense 1,954 miles, from the Pacific Ocean to the southern tip of Texas. Of those miles, approximately 696 are protected by a towering steel barrier, standing at 29 feet high, with only small gaps between the posts. It’s a massive steel structure—one that was designed to be nearly impenetrable. The wall’s intention was simple: reduce illegal immigration and criminal activity, including smuggling. And yet, even though it stands as a monumental symbol of U.S. border security, it’s proven not to be as foolproof as expected.

The steel structure is reinforced with concrete and coated with black paint, a tactic designed to make the wall uncomfortable to touch—potentially burning the hands of any would-be climbers. Double fences are installed in high-traffic areas like San Diego, and high-tech surveillance equipment such as motion sensors, drones, and aerial surveillance systems patrol the area 24/7. For all its technological advancements, the wall is constantly under threat—especially by well-funded and determined Mexican cartels.

But, contrary to popular belief, it’s not just the wall itself that faces challenges; the very nature of smuggling has evolved to bypass it. Since the early 2000s, criminal organizations have found new ways to breach what was supposed to be the ultimate defense against illegal crossings. Between 2019 and 2022, smuggling groups managed to cut through sections of the border wall a staggering 3,272 times, using simple, inexpensive power tools that any handyman could purchase.

Smugglers: Masters of Adaptation

The smuggling gangs, eager to carry on their lucrative trade, have learned to adapt, and they know how to get through the wall. Whether it’s by cutting through the steel posts with saws or digging under the barrier through sophisticated tunnels, they remain one step ahead of U.S. authorities.

Using basic tools like angle grinders and demolition saws, it only takes about 20 minutes to create a small gap in the wall. Once the bottom section of the wall is cut, it becomes a swinging door—just enough room for smugglers to slip through and continue their operations. This breach becomes a revolving door of illicit activity, with the smuggling gangs returning to the same spot repeatedly, fixing it temporarily before starting the process again.

But there are other ways to circumvent the wall that don’t involve cutting it. Climbing the fence has become increasingly popular, with smugglers and migrants using ladders made of rebar or wood to scale the wall. The narrow 4-inch gaps between the posts make it relatively easy for determined individuals to get over, and this method of entry has been happening all along the border.

But even that is not the biggest issue. Tunnels are an even more sophisticated method of smuggling, and as technology advances, so do the methods used by criminal organizations. The longest smuggling tunnel discovered to date stretches 8 miles—from Tijuana, Mexico, to San Diego, California—equipped with a system of rail carts, ventilation, high-voltage electric cables, and even an elevator at the entrance. These tunnels can carry large loads of contraband, including drugs, guns, and even people, without detection. Tunnels built in this way are a perfect example of how smuggling gangs continue to evolve, investing in the infrastructure needed to bypass a wall they can’t defeat.

The Challenge of Securing the Border

The U.S. government has poured billions of dollars into border security, building miles of walls, installing surveillance systems, and increasing personnel to patrol the area. But these efforts have been met with resistance and disappointment. The walls are far from invulnerable, and Smugglers, determined to profit from their trade, quickly adapt to overcome every obstacle thrown their way.

The border walls, though an important part of the security framework, are not the final answer to the complex issue of illegal immigration and smuggling. The true solution lies in a multi-layered approach, combining physical barriers, technological surveillance, intelligence sharing, and rapid-response teams.

In 2023, Texas attempted to put up a floating barrier along the Rio Grande River to further prevent illegal crossings. However, this effort was blocked by a federal district judge, who ruled against the measure, adding yet another layer of complexity to the already daunting task of securing the southern border.

The Reality of Border Security

Despite the challenges, the U.S. government continues to improve security on the border, using new technologies and strategic planning to address the issues of smuggling. The new wall sections, although vulnerable in some areas, are proving to be more resilient than previous designs. But it’s clear that no structure—no matter how advanced—can close the border entirely. The key to success lies in integrating all elements of border security: the wall, surveillance technologies, personnel, and the willingness to respond swiftly to breaches when they occur.

The border wall is far from perfect, and it has not solved all the issues associated with illegal immigration. Still, it stands as a crucial part of the U.S.’s broader strategy to keep illegal drugs, contraband, and dangerous criminals out of the country. As long as criminal organizations continue to adapt to the ever-evolving security measures, the battle to secure the border will remain ongoing.

And in the end, the debate over the border wall and how best to secure it isn’t just about politics or a wall—it’s about keeping our nation safe while also addressing the root causes of immigration and smuggling. The future of border security requires a comprehensive, multi-faceted strategy that accounts for technological advancements, new smuggling tactics, and a commitment to enforcing the law.

As the U.S. continues its efforts to protect its southern border, one thing remains clear: the wall is far from finished, but the fight to secure America is far from over.