2026 World Cup tension builds as US eyes airport clampdown

Several of America’s busiest international travel gateways could face major operational disruption ahead of the FIFA World Cup after the Trump administration signaled it may suspend immigration and customs processing in cities labeled as “sanctuary jurisdictions.”

The debate intensified after the US Justice Department published a list of sanctuary cities and states that includes key airport hubs linked to global travel and commerce, among them Boston Logan International Airport, Denver International Airport, Philadelphia International Airport, Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, Newark Liberty International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and San Francisco International Airport.

US Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin revealed that discussions are ongoing within the administration over possible restrictions targeting cities accused of refusing to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement measures.

Speaking during an appearance on Fox News with Sean Hannity, Mullin stressed that no final decision had been reached, but confirmed that preparations are being explored behind closed doors.

“We are currently — which we’re not initiating yet — but we’re currently drawing up plans,” Mullin said, while arguing that international arrivals should not continue flowing through cities he believes are obstructing federal immigration policies.

If implemented, the proposal could significantly affect international travel, tourism and cargo operations at some of the nation’s largest airports just as millions of overseas football fans are expected to arrive in the United States for next month’s FIFA World Cup activities.