Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin reported that over 1,900 noncitizens, identified as known terrorists, have been arrested in the U.S. since the Trump administration took office. These individuals allegedly entered the country during the Biden administration. The announcement was made during a press conference in New York City on July 1, 2026, where Mullin detailed ongoing security measures amidst major events like the FIFA World Cup and America 250 celebrations.
According to Mullin, these arrests do not include individuals on the FBI’s terrorist watch list. Instead, he asserted that these were known terrorists already identified before their entry into the country. “Since President Trump has come into office, we have arrested over 1,900 known terrorists that came in under the Biden administration,” Mullin stated. He emphasized the importance of vigilance against threats that may not be immediately identifiable.
The Secretary expressed concern over individuals who remain unidentified, stating that law enforcement always worries about untracked threats. He mentioned that the federal government is aware of about 18,000 individuals on the FBI terrorism watch list who were brought into the U.S. amid the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. Historically, encountered individuals on the watch list number in the hundreds each year, mostly occurring at U.S.-Canada vehicle crossing ports.
Former National Counterterrorism Center Director Joseph Kent described the current situation as “alarming” during a House Homeland Security Committee meeting last December. This aligns with ongoing discussions about national security and immigration policies that have come under scrutiny, especially related to the influx of certain populations during the previous administration.
As security concerns grow, Mullin noted that the Department of Homeland Security is committed to protecting the public. He mentioned “counter unmanned aerial systems” and effective collaboration with state and local law enforcement to ensure the necessary resources are available for maintaining public safety during significant events.
