Italians Outraged by ICE Agents Boosting US Security at Winter Olympics
As the Winter Olympics approach, a wave of outrage is sweeping across Italy concerning the involvement of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in security operations. This scrutiny follows two recent fatal shootings during an immigration crackdown in Minneapolis, prompting a call for intervention from Italian lawmakers.
Concerns Over ICE’s Role at the Winter Olympics
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is under pressure from current and former lawmakers to prevent ICE agents from participating in the upcoming games. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that ICE will play a “security role” but emphasized that the agency would not conduct immigration enforcement abroad.
Official Statements on Security Operations
DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin clarified that ICE’s role is to support the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service during the Olympics. According to her, all security measures will remain under Italian control. ICE will be involved primarily in operations centers, working to mitigate risks posed by transnational criminal organizations.
Italian Government’s Reaction
- Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani expressed his desire to address concerns over ICE’s involvement.
- Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi is scheduled to meet the U.S. ambassador to discuss the specifics of ICE’s role.
- Former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte urged the government to impose clear limits on the U.S. agency’s presence.
Conte voiced his disapproval, stating, “We cannot allow this.” He highlighted the need for Italy to assert its own security interests in light of alarming developments in the U.S.
Local Leaders Weigh In
Giuseppe Sala, the Mayor of Milan, echoed these sentiments, declaring that local authorities can manage security without ICE. He labeled the agency a “militia” and questioned whether Italy could refuse their involvement. Sala emphasized the incompatibility of ICE’s methods with Italy’s democratic values.
Public Opposition and Petitions
- Reports of ICE’s upcoming deployment in Milan spurred petitions against their presence.
- Italian lawmakers criticized ICE as “violent” and “unprepared,” reflecting a broad opposition to U.S. influence in national security.
This rising discontent indicates a significant backlash against perceived foreign intervention in Italy’s security operations, particularly amidst ongoing debates about immigration policies and practices within the U.S. The situation remains dynamic, with discussions ongoing between U.S. and Italian officials regarding the scope of ICE’s operations at the Winter Olympics.
