Official warns US could halt immigration, customs processing at ‘sanctuary city’ airports, sources say
US Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has warned that immigration and customs processing could be halted at major airports in 'sanctuary cities'. This warning comes as these cities have declined to cooperate with the Trump administration's immigration policies. The potential move could significantly disrupt the airline and tourism industries, according to industry representatives.
- ▪Markwayne Mullin indicated that customs processing could stop at airports in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
- ▪Airlines for America warned that reducing customs staffing would have a devastating effect on the airline and tourism industries.
- ▪Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed that air travel should not be shut down due to political disagreements.
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Official warns US could halt immigration, customs processing at ‘sanctuary city’ airports, sources saySign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxUS Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said the authorities could stop processing international travellers and cargo at major US airports in "sanctuary cities".PHOTO: REUTERSPublished May 22, 2026, 07:19 AMUpdated May 22, 2026, 08:03 AMListenWASHINGTON – US Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin privately warned that the authorities could stop processing international travellers and cargo at major US airports in “sanctuary cities” that have declined to cooperate with the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown, sources told Reuters.Mr Mullin, who publicly made the threat in April during a Department of Homeland…
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