On Friday, Newsweek confirmed that a new military operation is underway at the U.S.-Mexico border. Hundreds of troops have been deployed to the Rio Grande area following ongoing reports of cartel violence.
The U.S. Northern Command announced that Operation Unified Response aims to swiftly bolster forces and federal agents in the Rio Grande Valley. This initiative focuses on enhancing border security operations, improving the joint force’s ability to address threats, and assisting federal law enforcement partners along the Rio Grande, according to a spokesperson.
The operation will boost patrol capacity, strengthen key areas, enhance monitoring and detection capabilities, and secure vital locations in support of the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the spokesperson noted.
The decision to increase U.S. troop presence follows a reported shooting incident involving the U.S. Coast Guard near Garceno, Texas, last Saturday, as reported by NewsNation. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported.
Newsweek has reached out to the Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the Texas Military Department for additional comments on Friday afternoon.
Operation Unified Response: Current Details
The Northern Command spokesperson confirmed the deployment of troops on Friday. “The operation is part of the ongoing Operation Ardent Vanguard, through which Joint Task Force – Southern Border continues to provide military capabilities to protect U.S. sovereignty at the Southern Border,” the spokesperson said.
According to NewsNation, the deployment was partly due to the shooting incident where Coast Guard officers faced gunfire from the border area. It remains unclear whether Mexican authorities are involved in the current operation.
This article is part of a breaking news story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.