Crisis at the Border: Peru's Emergency Response to Migrant Outflow

Amid rising anti-immigrant sentiment in Chile, Peru has declared a state of emergency along its southern border. The move comes as Venezuelan migrants, facing rhetoric of mass deportations from Chilean presidential candidate José Antonio Kast, head north. Peru aims to manage the influx and prevent a humanitarian crisis.

Peru's President José Jarí announced a state of emergency along the southern border, deploying armed forces amidst an influx of Venezuelan migrants from Chile. The migrants, fleeing economic hardship, are prompted northward by Chile's changing immigration stance during an intense presidential race.

Ultraconservative candidate José Antonio Kast has intensified fears over immigration from Venezuela, threatening mass deportations if he wins. His campaign video at Chile's border underscored his hardline position, contributing to the migrant exodus.

Chile's northern border towns are witnessing confusion as migrants, unable to enter Peru, are stranded. Minister of Security Luis Cordero stressed the need to prevent a crisis, cautioning against the political exploitation of people.

(With inputs from agencies.)