Qatari Forces and ICE Presence at Winter Olympics Unsettle Italians
As the countdown to the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics draws closer, security is now at the forefront of public discussion in Italy. With fewer than seven days remaining until the event, concerns have arisen regarding the involvement of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Qatari security forces.
US ICE Presence Raises Concern
Recent reports confirmed the deployment of ICE at the Olympics. This announcement followed confirmation from the US Department of Homeland Security, which stated that ICE agents would accompany a US delegation to the Games. Their stated role is to “vet and mitigate risks from transnational criminal organizations” rather than conduct immigration enforcement.
Despite reassurances from US officials, the decision has sparked considerable backlash. Local authorities and the public have responded negatively to ICE’s involvement, especially after recent violent incidents involving US immigration agents in the US.
Public Sentiment and Protests
- Protests took place in Milan with demonstrators carrying signs such as “No ICE in Milano” and “ICE Out Now.”
- Mayor Giuseppe Sala expressed his disapproval, stating that ICE agents were “not welcome” in the city.
- Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi acknowledged the situation but claimed he was unaware of ICE’s presence.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has yet to publicly comment on this issue, leaving residents and officials questioning the government’s stance on ICE’s role at the Games.
Qatari Security Forces Arrive
ICE is not the only controversial security detail in Milan. On January 27, a cargo plane from Qatar landed at Malpensa Airport, bringing with it over a hundred public security officers, along with 20 camouflage SUVs and three snowmobiles.
The arrival of these vehicles signaled a heightened security apparatus set up by Italy for the Olympics. They traversed through significant city landmarks, including Piazza Duomo and San Siro, where the opening ceremony is scheduled to be held.
Security Strategy for the Olympics
Italian authorities pledged to deploy over 6,000 personnel for security during the Olympics. However, the role of ICE will be limited to protecting the US delegation, which includes notable figures like Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Instead of being frontline agents, the ICE presence is expected to be discreet, consisting of operatives in formal attire rather than military gear.
As the Olympics approach, the implications of these security measures continue to stir debate among Italians, reflecting broader concerns about safety and international collaboration during the Games.
