United States President Donald Trump’s border enforcement advisor, Tom Homan, proposed on Monday the reopening of the infamous Alcatraz Island as a potential migrant detention facility. Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Homan emphasized the urgent need for more detention space across the country, particularly for individuals deemed high-risk.

“We need detention beds,” Homan stated. “I think it’s certainly an option, especially for the significant public safety threats and national security threats.” He added that the Alcatraz option “should be on the table.”

The remarks come amid mounting pressure on the administration to address overcrowding in migrant detention facilities and to find solutions for individuals awaiting deportation or legal processing. The idea of using Alcatraz, once home to America’s most notorious prison, has reignited debate about the ethics and symbolism of such a move.

President Trump has previously called for Alcatraz to be renovated and reopened, suggesting it could be used to house “America’s most ruthless and violent offenders.” Monday’s comments by Homan mark the first time a senior official has directly linked the facility to immigration enforcement strategy.

Over the past few months, the administration has consistently demanded increased space and funding to accommodate a rising number of illegal migrants detained at the southern border. The proposed use of Alcatraz underscores a broader push by the Trump administration to take aggressive action in strengthening border security and expanding detention infrastructure.

While the idea remains under consideration, it is expected to spark legal, political, and humanitarian scrutiny. Civil rights advocates have already expressed concerns over conditions in current detention centers, and the potential reopening of Alcatraz may further intensify opposition from immigration and human rights groups.