The best advice I have is, actually present yourself at a legal border crossing and make your case. Cross illegally and get arrested, and your children will be given to us. That's the simple fact, I'm afraid.

In this quote, Alex Azar is offering a harsh perspective on the consequences of illegal immigration in the United States. He suggests that the best course of action for individuals seeking to cross into the country is to present themselves at a legal border crossing and make their case for entry, implying that this process is the appropriate way to seek asylum or immigration. However, he also points out the consequences of crossing illegally, stating that if individuals are caught, children will be separated from their parents and taken into U.S. custody.

Azar’s statement reflects the tough stance on immigration enforcement that has been a central theme in U.S. policy, particularly under the Trump administration. The mention of children being separated from parents is a reference to the controversial "zero tolerance" policy, which led to widespread criticism over the treatment of migrant families. Azar’s comment highlights the tough measures that have been enacted to deter illegal immigration and family reunification at the U.S.-Mexico border.

By saying “your children will be given to us,” Azar is emphasizing the border enforcement policies that resulted in the detention of migrant children while their parents faced legal proceedings. His statement points to the legal and logistical complexities of immigration law and the difficult choices individuals face when seeking refuge in the United States, often under dire circumstances.

Ultimately, Azar’s quote underscores the divide between the legal immigration system and the consequences of crossing the border illegally. It illustrates the challenging reality faced by migrants and the significant political and moral debate over how to manage immigration and the treatment of families at the U.S. border.