What does "Operation Gatekeeper" aim to achieve?

"Operation Gatekeeper" was initiated by the U.S. government in the mid-1990s with the primary goal of strengthening border security, particularly in urban areas along the U.S.-Mexico border. This operation aimed to deter illegal immigration by increasing the presence of law enforcement and surveillance in regions where many immigrants had historically crossed the border. By enhancing security measures, the initiative focused on reducing the number of undocumented immigrants entering the United States through heavily populated and urban areas, which were seen as vulnerable points for illegal crossings.

The emphasis on urban areas was due to the high volume of illegal crossings detected in such regions, and it was anticipated that a fortified border would not only secure the area but also redirect migrants towards more remote and perilous crossing points, ultimately leading to a decrease in illegal border crossings. This goal aligns directly with the overarching objectives of border control and enforcement during that period, differentiating it from aspects related to trade, legal immigration processes, or job creation.