Italy Outraged by Plan to Deploy ICE Agents at 2026 Olympics

The upcoming Milan Cortina 2026 Olympic Games have ignited a fierce debate in Italy regarding the deployment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents for security purposes. A wave of criticism has emerged from various Italian politicians who are advocating against the presence of these agents at the international event.

Italian Political Pushback Against ICE at the Olympics

Prominent voices in Italy, including Mayor Giuseppe Sala of Milan, have voiced strong opposition. Sala stated, “This is a militia that kills… They are not welcome in Milan, without a doubt.” His comments reflect a growing sentiment that ICE’s involvement would not be suitable for the Olympic environment.

ICE has historically supported security efforts at significant international events, but the current political climate has steeped this plan in controversy. Critics highlight past incidents, including violent episodes in the U.S., as reasons to reject ICE’s participation.

Official Responses from U.S. and Italian Authorities

Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin clarified that ICE’s role at the Games would not involve immigration enforcement. Instead, ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations unit is set to assist in mitigating risks from transnational criminal organizations.

• ICE will support the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service.
• All security operations are under the jurisdiction of Italian authorities.

Italy’s Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi also emphasized that, while U.S. security personnel may be present, ICE operations will not take place on Italian soil. He reaffirmed, “It’s not like the SS are about to arrive,”—a statement aimed at alleviating fears about the agents’ presence.

Continued Concerns from Former Leaders

Despite these reassurances, former Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has taken to social media, urging the Italian government to block ICE’s involvement. He pointed out, “We cannot allow this,” highlighting concerns over past violence associated with ICE’s activities in the U.S.

The opening ceremonies for the Milan 2026 Olympics are less than two weeks away. The controversy surrounding ICE’s participation unfolds against a backdrop of heightened tensions between the U.S. and its European allies.

As the event draws closer, the resolution of this issue remains uncertain, with many Italian politicians advocating for a clear stance against the involvement of ICE agents.