El Paso, Texas —1 August 2025
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has opened its largest immigration detention facility at Fort Bliss, a military base near El Paso. The move follows Executive Order 14159, which allows national security assets to be used for immigration enforcement.

The facility began operations in early August and will house single adult detainees. It starts with 1,000 beds and expands by 250 beds each week, aiming for a total of 5,000 beds by fall. ICE awarded a $231.8 million contract to Acquisition Logistics LLC, based in Virginia, to manage operations until September 2027.

Tricia McLaughlin, a DHS spokesperson, stated that ICE is using every available option to increase detention capacity, including facilities on military grounds like Fort Bliss.

The site covers roughly 60 acres and is built with temporary, soft-sided structures. It is publicly accessible without passing through secure military checkpoints.

Civil rights groups have expressed concerns about placing civilian detainees on military property. Congresswoman Veronica Escobar, who represents El Paso, has challenged the necessity of the site, saying the country is not in an immigration emergency. International observers are monitoring the situation, citing potential human rights and diplomatic concerns.