Chile Extends Military Deployment in Northern Border Regions

Chile's Chamber of Deputies approved a 90‑day extension of the armed forces' deployment in the northern border zones of Arica y Parinacota, Tarapacá and Antofagasta. The measure, backed by President José Antonio Kast, received 126 votes in favor, two against and two abstentions, and now awaits Senate review before the current mandate expires on 6 August 2026. The deployment, originally authorized in February 2023 under Supreme Decree No. 78, is intended to maintain security operations against illegal crossings, drug trafficking, smuggling and transnational organized crime.

Earlier, the Senate had approved a tariff‑protection electricity bill and also reaffirmed support for the continuation of the constitutional exception in the southern macro‑zone and the military presence in the north, signalling sustained parliamentary backing for the security strategy.