Kathmandu: Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced Sunday that he has directed federal agencies to rebuild and reopen the historic Alcatraz prison, aiming to use the facility to house what he called "America’s most ruthless and violent criminals."

The announcement, made on Trump’s Truth Social platform, marks a dramatic move in his tough-on-crime agenda, particularly targeting immigrants and repeat offenders. “Rebuild and reopen Alcatraz!” Trump wrote, adding that he has instructed the Bureau of Prisons, Department of Justice, FBI, and Homeland Security to begin preparations for expanding and reconstructing the defunct facility.

Located on an isolated island in San Francisco Bay, Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary operated from 1934 to 1963 and famously housed notorious criminals such as Al Capone. The prison became widely known for its high security and escape-proof design—though three inmates, including Frank Morris, made a legendary escape in 1962, inspiring the Hollywood film Escape from Alcatraz.

The prison was closed in 1963 due to high operating costs, being three times more expensive than other prisons, with logistical challenges like shipping food, fuel, and water to the island. Since 1973, it has been managed as a national park and major tourist destination, drawing more than a million visitors annually.

Trump criticized modern criminal justice trends, writing: “When we were a more serious nation, we did not hesitate to lock up the most dangerous criminals… This is how it should be.”

The proposal has sparked criticism, particularly from Democratic leaders. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who represents San Francisco, dismissed the idea as political posturing, calling it “not serious” and citing Alcatraz’s current status as a valued national park.

The move aligns with Trump's hardline immigration policy, which has included efforts to deport gang members under the Enemies Act of 1798, and proposals to outsource the incarceration of violent offenders to countries like El Salvador. His administration has already funded detention agreements with El Salvador and raised the possibility of sending American convicts there.

Meanwhile, United Nations human rights experts last week accused the U.S. of denying due process to over 250 Venezuelan and Salvadoran deportees, raising concerns about Trump’s broader approach to justice and immigration.

Trump’s call to reopen Alcatraz may energize his political base, but it has reignited debates around prison reform, human rights, and the symbolic legacy of one of America's most infamous prisons.