EU lawmakers and state representatives have agreed in principle to new regulations aimed at expediting the deportation of rejected asylum seekers, amid rising pressure to address illegal migration. The agreement allows EU countries to transfer these individuals to 'return hubs' outside the bloc if they cannot be sent back to their countries of origin. Key provisions include stricter measures for illegal migrants deemed security risks, such as home searches, welfare cuts, and extended detention periods of up to two and a half years. Entry bans will also be increased from five to ten years, with lifetime bans possible in certain cases. French MEP Francois-Xavier Bellamy emphasized that this marks the end of a lenient approach towards illegal migrants. The proposal, initially put forth by the European Commission, reflects growing discontent with the ongoing influx of illegal migrants, which has been a divisive political issue in Europe. However, rights groups have raised concerns that these rules could lead to increased detention and unsafe conditions for rejected asylum seekers. The agreement still requires formal approval from EU governments and the European Parliament before implementation.