U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Winter Olympics
Table of Contents
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel were involved in security operations during the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. This involvement, first reported in late January 2026, raises questions about the agency’s role in international events and its domestic priorities.
Role of ICE at the 2026 Winter Olympics
Details regarding the specific tasks assigned to ICE agents remain limited. Initial reports suggest their presence was related to identifying and potentially apprehending individuals who pose a security threat, with a focus on those with prior immigration violations or criminal records. Department of Homeland Security Statement confirms the deployment of a limited number of ICE personnel to assist Italian authorities.
Italian Government Response and Collaboration
The Italian government, through the Ministry of the Interior, requested assistance from international partners, including the United States, to bolster security measures for the Games. Italian officials have emphasized that the collaboration is focused on preventing terrorism and ensuring the safety of athletes and spectators. Joint Italian-U.S. Statement on Olympic Security details the scope of the security cooperation.
Concerns and Criticisms
Civil liberties groups have expressed concerns about the deployment of ICE agents abroad, citing potential for abuse of power and the expansion of immigration enforcement beyond U.S. borders. Organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union have called for clarity regarding the agency’s activities and safeguards to protect the rights of individuals. ACLU Press Release on ICE Involvement outlines their specific concerns.
Current status (as of January 27, 2026)
As of January 27, 2026, ICE personnel remain deployed as part of the security operation for the Winter Olympics.The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has not released detailed information about the number of agents involved or the specific criteria used for identifying individuals of interest. The Italian government continues to coordinate security efforts with international partners,and no major security incidents have been reported as of this date.
