Antony J. Blinken Secretary of State | Official website
The U.S. Department of State has designated Barrio 18 as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) and Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT). The group, known as one of the largest gangs in the Western Hemisphere, has been responsible for attacks on security personnel, public officials, and civilians in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras.
According to the State Department, "The United States will continue to protect our nation by keeping illicit drugs off our streets and disrupting the revenue streams funding the violent and criminal activity of vicious gangs and drug cartels. Today’s action taken by the State Department further demonstrates the Trump Administration’s unwavering commitment to dismantling cartels and gangs and ensuring the safety of the American people."
These actions are authorized under section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act and Executive Order 13224. The designation becomes effective upon publication in the Federal Register.
