Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth on Thursday announced the first deportation flight carrying illegal migrants from the U.S. has arrived at Guantanamo Bay.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said last week the military prison was undergoing preparation to receive such individuals. Those comments followed President Donald Trump saying as many as 30,000 migrants could be sent there.

Hegseth shared video on X of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel receiving the plane Thursday at Guantanamo Bay. The officials search several individuals before escorting them to a van, the video shows.

Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-Texas, expressed outrage over the operation and accused Hegseth of misusing taxpayer dollars.

“The use of Guantanamo Bay is predicted to cost hundreds of millions of dollars,” Escobar wrote on X. “These measures are nothing more than unnecessary and cruel political theater and a gross misuse of federal funds and military personnel.”

Also reacting was the City of El Paso, Texas, which served as a takeoff point for the departing flights from Fort Bliss.

“The City of El Paso has no authority over immigration enforcement or deportation flights, as these matters fall under the jurisdiction of the federal government,” the city wrote in a statement. “However, our community remains deeply committed to supporting solutions that prioritize public safety, respect the dignity of all individuals, and encourage strong collaboration between local, state, and federal entities.

“As always, El Paso will continue to work with partners at every level to address the challenges and opportunities posed by migration in a way that reflects our values and commitment to our community.”

Follow Jackson Walker on X at @_jlwalker_ for the latest trending national news. Have a news tip? Send it to jacwalker@sbgtv.com.