Trump Delivers Double Blow: 100% Tariff on Foreign Films, Orders Reopening of Alcatraz Prison

Washington D.C., May 5 — In a dramatic move that could have far-reaching cultural and political consequences, former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced two sweeping decisions: the imposition of a 100% tariff on all foreign films and the reopening of the infamous Alcatraz prison, which had remained closed for over six decades.

Trump Declares Foreign Films a “National Security Threat”

Posting on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump claimed that foreign nations are undermining the American film industry by luring filmmakers and studios away from the U.S.. “This is not just about business; it’s about propaganda and controlling minds,” he wrote, calling the phenomenon a “national security threat.”

The new 100% import tariff on all foreign films aims to boost domestic film production and retain Hollywood’s global dominance. Trump accused foreign governments of “orchestrated efforts” to dismantle America’s cinematic leadership by offering incentives to U.S.-based filmmakers to shoot abroad.

“The U.S. movie industry is dying fast. Other countries are stealing our storytellers. We must bring them back,” Trump stated.

Alcatraz to House America’s “Most Dangerous Criminals”

In a stunning parallel announcement, Trump has ordered the Bureau of Prisons, DOJ, FBI, and Homeland Security to reopen and modernize Alcatraz, the high-security prison once located on an island in San Francisco Bay.

Originally shut down in 1963, Alcatraz has since become a historic landmark and popular tourist attraction. However, Trump now wants it transformed into a state-of-the-art correctional facility to house what he termed “America’s most dangerous criminals.”

“Alcatraz is back — bigger, tougher, and more secure than ever,” Trump wrote.

Officials have not yet provided a timeline for the renovation or reopening of the prison. However, Trump’s directives reportedly include plans for a next-generation surveillance system, maximum-security cells, and expedited legal protocols for high-risk inmates.

Reactions and Legal Hurdles Expected

Legal experts anticipate major challenges ahead, especially with regard to the film tariff, which could affect international trade agreements and spark retaliatory tariffs from global allies.

The Alcatraz decision also faces hurdles, including environmental concerns, heritage protection laws, and significant infrastructure requirements to retransform the site from a national monument to a federal penitentiary.

Nonetheless, both announcements align with Trump’s recurring campaign themes of economic nationalism, “America First” protectionism, and law-and-order governance as he eyes a return to the White House.