The United States has intensified its immigration enforcement efforts, arresting 956 individuals in a large-scale operation spanning multiple cities. This marks the most extensive immigration crackdown since President Donald Trump’s return to office. The operation, conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) targeted major metropolitan areas, including New York, Chicago, Miami, Philadelphia, Boston, Atlanta, and Newark.
According to ICE officials, those arrested include individuals with prior criminal convictions, suspected gang members, and persons accused of serious offenses, including crimes against minors. Homeland Security authorities emphasized that the operation aligns with the administration’s broader strategy to strengthen national security and remove individuals deemed threats to public safety.
White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt confirmed that, over the past three days, federal authorities had detained 538 undocumented immigrants. She further stated that 373 of those apprehended had already been deported vi the U.S. Air Force flights to their home countries. Leavitt highlighted that many of those detained were involved in criminal activities, including suspected terrorism and child exploitation.
However, the sweeping enforcement measures have drawn criticism from local officials and immigrant rights advocates. In Newark, New Jersey, Mayor Ras Baraka accused ICE agents of conducting warrantless raids. He claimed that federal officers entered a local business and detained not only undocumented immigrants but also at least one U.S. citizen. Baraka condemned the actions, stating that such operations create fear within immigrant communities and disrupt local economies.
President Trump has maintained a hardline stance on immigration, making it a key focus of his administration. Since returning t the office, he has signed multiple executive orders aimed at strengthening border security, increasing deportations, and restricting pathways to citizenship. His administration argues that these measures are essential for upholding the rule of law and protecting American citizens.
Despite assurances from federal authorities that the raids specifically target criminals and individuals violating immigration laws, advocacy groups have raised concerns about potential wrongful detentions. Immigration rights organizations warn that legal residents and even U.S. citizens could be mistakenly arrested during such large-scale enforcement operations.
With the Trump administration signaling its intent to expand these actions, further crackdowns on undocumented immigrants are expected in the coming months. Homeland Security officials have indicated that the number of arrests and deportations will continue to rise as part of the administration’s broader immigration policy.