Washington: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Wednesday described the naval base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba as “a perfect place” to detain deported migrants. This statement comes in the wake of President Donald Trump’s announcement directing the Pentagon and the Department of Homeland Security to establish a 30,000-person detention facility at Guantanamo Bay for undocumented migrants.

According to Anadolu Agency, Hegseth, recalling his service as an officer at Guantanamo during his 2004-2005 National Guard deployment, explained the dual mission of the naval base. He stated that while Guantanamo is often associated with the detention of Taliban and al-Qaeda members, it also serves as a naval station with missions including providing for migrants, refugees, and resettlement.

The official website of Naval Station Guantanamo Bay outlines its support for various missions such as maritime security, humanitarian assistance, and joint operations. Despite its role, Guantanamo is also home to a contentious military facility where prisoners have faced allegations of torture, especially post the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the US.

Hegseth emphasized the suitability of Guantanamo Bay for migrant detention, stating it is constructed to sustain migrants away from the American populace while they are processed for return to their countries. This aligns with the Trump administration’s focus on mass deportations as a key component of its domestic policy.

A report from the International Refugee Assistance Project last year highlighted systemic human rights violations at the Guantanamo facility and called for its closure. The report raised concerns over issues like undrinkable water, exposure to sewage, and insufficient medical care and education for children at the center.