The US Department of Justice (DOJ) filed a lawsuit against Texas over Rio Grande barriers. Texas allegedly violated federal law by installing barriers without authorization. These barriers are a threat to navigation and have triggered Mexico’s diplomatic protests.
Governor Greg Abbott’s Operation Lone Star initiative set up large buoys to deter migrants. However, DOJ argues the barriers violate the Rivers and Harbors Appropriation Act. They pose hazards to boaters and impede Border Patrol responses.
Mexico claims the barriers infringe on its sovereignty and could escalate border violence. DOJ seeks an injunction against more barriers and wants Texas to remove the existing ones.
This lawsuit is part of several legal challenges to Texas’ border wall efforts. It tests the Biden administration’s immigration law enforcement commitment amid criticism. A win in court could help deter illegal border crossings.
