In what areas does the U.S. Border Patrol primarily operate?

The U.S. Border Patrol primarily operates at the U.S. land borders, which include the long boundary with Mexico and Canada, and also engages in maritime environments to monitor and control illegal crossings and smuggling activities over water. This dual focus is crucial for ensuring border security, as threats can emerge from both land and sea.

The responsibilities of the Border Patrol extend beyond just land borders, encompassing coastal areas where illegal immigration and trafficking can occur, particularly in regions along the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic coast. Such operations reflect the agency's comprehensive approach to border security, protecting not only the nation's land borders but also its waterways.

In contrast, the other choices restrict the areas of operation for the Border Patrol in ways that do not align with their real mission. Limiting operations solely to urban environments, focusing exclusively on international waters, or confining them to military bases does not capture the full scope of their duties and responsibilities as outlined in their operational framework.