German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser announced plans to extend border controls beyond the March deadline, citing significant successes in combating illegal immigration. Since resuming checks, approximately 1,800 smugglers have been arrested and about 40,000 individuals turned away at the borders. The announcement coincides with a surge in deportations and ongoing debates regarding the repatriation of Syrian refugees, contingent on future stability in Syria. Border controls, typically restricted under Schengen rules, can be maintained under security threats for up to two years.