Trump Administration Delivers 15 Straight Months of Zero Releases at the Border

WASHINGTON - Today, the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced 15 consecutive months of zero releases at the border, continuing the unprecedented trend of historically low border crossings.

"Again this month, the results are clear: President Trump's border security agenda is restoring order and putting the safety of the American people first," said DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin. "DHS remains focused on enforcing our immigration laws, securing the border, and ensuring those who enter our country illegally are removed swiftly. Thanks to the strong leadership of President Trump, we have the most secure border in history."

The sustained decline in illegal border crossings and apprehensions-now at levels not seen in over three decades-shows the profound impact of robust enforcement policies. With daily apprehensions down 94% from the previous administration, the border remains more secure than at any point in history.

"Clear policy, strong enforcement, and dedicated frontline personnel are delivering results at our borders," said CBP Commissioner Rodney S. Scott. "With the support of President Trump and Secretary Mullin, CBP is securing our nation against illegal crossings, dangerous individuals, and illicit drugs while keeping lawful trade and travel moving. These results show what is possible when border security is treated as a national priority."

Below is a snapshot of July's key figures. Full monthly reporting can be viewed on CBP's Stats and Summaries webpage.

Border Enforcement at Historic Levels

Illegal crossings in July remained historically low:

• Border Patrol apprehensions decreased in July
  • The U.S. Border Patrol's apprehensions along the southwest border in July (9,295) were 6% lower than June. Nationwide, the Border Patrol's apprehensions in July (11,298) were 1% lower than last month.
• Southwest border apprehensions were 94% lower than under Biden
  • The U.S. Border Patrol's apprehensions along the southwest border in July were 94% lower than the monthly average of the Biden administration; 96% below the peak of the Biden administration (December 2023); and less than what was apprehended in 6 days in July 2024.
• Fiscal year to date apprehensions historically low
  • Total U.S. Border Patrol apprehensions along the southwest border this fiscal year through July are lower than just one month on average from FYs 1992 through 2024.

Drug Interdictions That Save Lives

CBP remains on the frontline against drug smuggling, seizing dangerous narcotics before they reach American communities.

• July seizures 26% higher than under Biden: Nationwide in July, seizures of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, and marijuana (combined, by weight) increased 26% from July 2024.
• Fiscal year drug seizures 54% higher than under Biden: CBP has seized 54% more drugs this fiscal year through July than it seized during the same period of FY 2024.
• Fentanyl seizures up: Fentanyl seizures increased 3% from June 2026, with 1,054 pounds seized in July 2026.
• Heroin seizures up: Heroin seizures increased 20% from June 2026, with 79 pounds seized in July 2026.

Trade and Tariff Enforcement

CBP plays a central role in enforcing U.S. trade law and supporting economic security.

• $342 billion in imports processed in July 2026.
• $23 billion in duties identified for collection in July 2026.

Protecting Consumers and Supply Chains

CBP continues to safeguard the American economy by targeting forced labor and counterfeit goods.

• In July, CBP stopped 300 shipments valued at more than $83 million for potential forced labor violations.
• CBP seized a quantity of 2.9 million counterfeit goods valued at over $2 billion.

Agriculture Stats/Seizures - Securing American Agriculture

In July, CBP agriculture specialists helped protect America's agriculture, natural resources, and economic prosperity.

• CBP issued 6,554 emergency action notifications for restricted and prohibited plant and animal products.
• CBP conducted 114,147 positive passenger inspections and issued 704 civil penalties and/or violations to the traveling public for failing to declare prohibited agriculture items.

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