Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin warns that major international airports in sanctuary cities could lose federal customs operations if local governments continue refusing to cooperate with immigration enforcement. Sanctuary Cities Face Airport Consequences Secretary Mullin told Fox News that his department is examining whether cities that refuse to enforce immigration laws should retain their customs processing capabilities. He questioned why federal agents should process international arrivals when local authorities immediately shield those same individuals from immigration enforcement once they leave the airport terminals. The proposal targets major hubs including New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, where local policies prevent police from assisting federal immigration officers. When pressed on whether major airports could actually lose customs operations, Mullin confirmed the possibility. He explained that Democrats are already pushing to defund Customs and Border Protection, which forces him to make hard decisions about resource allocation. The secretary emphasized he would prioritize cities willing to partner with federal authorities while staying within policies established by Congress. San Francisco Incident Highlights Conflict The threat comes after a recent incident at San Francisco International Airport where ICE agents detained an illegal immigrant, only to face interference from far-left activists while local police refused to provide assistance. San Francisco’s sanctuary city policies prevented officers from supporting federal law enforcement, illustrating the conflict Mullin now addresses. The city’s airport handles millions of international passengers annually, making customs operations essential to its economy and transportation infrastructure. What This Means for Major Cities Removing customs operations would force international flights to reroute to airports in jurisdictions that cooperate with federal immigration law. This would devastate local economies dependent on international travel and business connections. Mullin argues that sanctuary city policies are unlawful and that federal resources should support communities willing to enforce immigration statutes. The proposal represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between federal immigration enforcement and local sanctuary policies that have shielded individuals from deportation for years. Sources The Gateway Pundit: DHS Secretary Mullin Threatens to Remove CBP Operation from Sanctuary City International Airports Until They Stop Harboring Illegals and Comply with Federal Law