In a recent government meeting, officials highlighted alarming trends in illegal immigration and national security concerns, revealing that over 9.5 million known illegal aliens have entered the United States since 2021. This figure surpasses the entire population of Israel and approaches that of Hungary, indicating a significant and widespread issue that transcends borders and demographics.

The discussions emphasized that illegal immigration is not confined to the southern border, with a notable increase in apprehensions at the northern border, which have surged by 800% this fiscal year, totaling nearly 23,000. The influx includes individuals from diverse countries such as India, Romania, Russia, and China, raising concerns about the vetting processes in place. Officials pointed out that while initial vetting occurs, it is limited compared to the thorough checks conducted during legal immigration processes. This is particularly concerning given that the U.S. lacks access to criminal and terrorist watch list databases from several nations, complicating the identification of potential threats.

The meeting also addressed the growing number of \"gotaways\"—individuals who evade capture—estimated at over 2 million since 2021. This figure, combined with the apprehension of individuals on terrorist watch lists, has led to heightened fears regarding national security. Officials noted that the number of apprehensions of individuals on these lists has increased dramatically, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced border security measures.

In contrast, some experts argued that the actual threat posed by illegal immigrants is minimal, citing historical data that shows no successful terrorist attacks on U.S. soil by individuals who entered illegally. They emphasized that while the potential for a terrorist incident exists, the statistical likelihood remains low, suggesting that the focus should be on rational analysis rather than fear-driven narratives.

The meeting concluded with calls for immediate action to secure borders and improve vetting processes, as officials and experts alike acknowledged the precarious situation facing the nation. The discussions reflect a critical juncture in U.S. immigration policy and national security strategy, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that addresses both security concerns and the realities of immigration.