How Will ICE Ensure Security at the World Cup in the US?

The recent actions of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minneapolis have raised significant concerns, particularly following the tragic deaths of two American citizens, Alex Pretti and Renee Good, during enforcement operations. As the agency prepares for its role in securing the upcoming World Cup, questions have emerged about how its activities might impact the safety and confidence of international visitors. The acting head of ICE, Todd Lyons, has asserted that the agency is committed to ensuring security for all participants and visitors, despite calls from lawmakers to pause operations during the tournament.

Last updated: 19 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

In the wake of the deadly incidents in Minneapolis, where two US citizens lost their lives during ICE operations, the agency faces increasing scrutiny regarding its enforcement practices. Lawmakers, including Representative Nellie Pou, are urging ICE to reconsider its operations during the World Cup, arguing that the agency's presence could deter fans from attending the matches. Todd Lyons has maintained that ICE will not pause its activities, stating that the agency is integral to the security measures surrounding the tournament.

Key takeaways

Two American citizens were killed during recent ICE operations in Minneapolis, sparking public outrage.
ICE insists it will not halt operations during the World Cup, despite calls for a pause.
Concerns have been raised about the impact of ICE's actions on international visitors’ confidence in attending the tournament.

Timeline: how we got here

The controversy surrounding ICE's actions in Minneapolis has unfolded over several months, particularly intensifying leading up to the World Cup. Below is a brief timeline of key events:

January 2023: ICE increases enforcement operations in Minneapolis under directives from the Trump administration.
February 2023: Alex Pretti and Renee Good are killed during enforcement actions, prompting national outrage and calls for accountability.
September 2023: Todd Lyons addresses lawmakers regarding ICE's role in World Cup security during a congressional hearing.
October 2023: Representative Pou questions ICE's commitment to pausing operations during the tournament.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent discussions in Congress have highlighted concerns from lawmakers regarding the potential risks posed by ICE's ongoing operations during the World Cup. The agency's commitment to security has been reiterated by Todd Lyons, despite public outcry and requests for operational pauses.

What was already established

ICE has faced criticism for its enforcement tactics, particularly following the deaths of Pretti and Good. The agency has historically maintained a controversial presence in various communities as part of its immigration enforcement strategy, which has included heightened operations in Minneapolis.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK fans planning to attend the World Cup, the current situation raises concerns about safety and security. Reports of aggressive enforcement practices by ICE could deter supporters from travelling, impacting fan attendance and the overall atmosphere of the tournament.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses in the host cities may experience a downturn in patronage if potential visitors feel unsafe. The hospitality sector, especially, relies on the influx of international fans, and any decline in attendance could lead to significant financial losses.

Policy and regulation

The ongoing situation may prompt discussions around immigration policy and enforcement practices in the US. With the World Cup approaching, there could be increased pressure on the Biden administration to address public safety concerns linked to ICE operations.

Numbers that matter

2: Number of American citizens killed in recent ICE operations in Minneapolis.
3,000: Estimated number of ICE agents deployed in Minneapolis for enhanced immigration enforcement.
78: Total matches to be hosted by the US during the World Cup across 11 cities.
13: Matches to be co-hosted by Canada and Mexico during the tournament.

Definitions and jargon buster

ICE: Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a federal agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws and investigating customs violations in the US.
World Cup: An international football tournament contested by the men's national teams of the member associations of FIFA.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As the World Cup approaches, it will be crucial to monitor announcements from both ICE and FIFA regarding security measures. Fans should remain informed about any changes to operational protocols that could affect their travel plans.

Medium term (1–6 months)

In the aftermath of the tournament, discussions around ICE's role and the impact of its enforcement operations may evolve. Policymakers could face increased pressure to reform immigration enforcement practices, particularly in light of public safety concerns.

Signals to watch

Statements from ICE regarding operational changes during the World Cup.
Fan attendance numbers and reports from local businesses in host cities.
Legislative actions or proposals addressing immigration enforcement in the US.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about the latest developments regarding ICE operations and security measures for the World Cup.
Consider travel insurance that covers cancellations related to safety concerns.
Engage with local community organisations that advocate for fan safety and rights.

Don’t

Don’t ignore safety warnings or advice from local authorities while attending events.
Don’t hesitate to report any suspicious or concerning activity to event security.
Don’t assume that enforcement practices will remain static; stay adaptable to changes.

Checklist

Check ICE's announcements for any updates on operations during the World Cup.
Review your travel plans and ensure they accommodate potential disruptions.
Familiarise yourself with local laws and enforcement practices in host cities.
Connect with fellow fans to share information and resources.
Stay updated on fan group statements and safety recommendations.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The evolving situation surrounding ICE’s operations poses various uncertainties. Public sentiment may shift rapidly in response to new developments, and potential changes to enforcement practices could arise. Moreover, the political climate leading up to the World Cup could influence how agencies like ICE operate and how they are perceived by both domestic and international audiences.

Bottom line

The upcoming World Cup is set against a backdrop of heightened scrutiny regarding ICE's enforcement actions in the US. As safety concerns mount, the agency's commitment to security must be balanced with the need to ensure that fans feel welcomed and safe during the tournament. Stakeholders must remain vigilant and responsive to the evolving landscape.

FAQs

What are ICE's current operations in Minneapolis?

ICE's operations in Minneapolis have included increased enforcement actions, which have led to significant public outcry following the deaths of two American citizens. The agency has stated that its focus remains on security, especially with the World Cup approaching.

How might ICE's actions affect World Cup attendance?

Concerns about safety and wrongful incarceration may deter international fans from attending the World Cup. Lawmakers and fan groups are advocating for ICE to pause operations during the tournament to ensure visitor confidence.

What is the response from FIFA regarding safety?

FIFA has emphasised that the safety and security of fans and participants is its top priority, stating it works closely with local authorities to deliver comprehensive security measures for the World Cup.