As tensions surrounding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers flare up across the U.S., countries around the world rally to support immigrants and Americans alike. ICE agents will serve as security in the 2026 Winter Olympics from February 6-22, generating backlash across Italy. Italian protestors gathered from around the country, blowing whistles and chanting the newly coined phrase, “ICE out.” With thousands of angered citizens calling for the removal of ICE agents, the Italian government scrambled to assure the public that the agents’ assistance would remain limited.
According to U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump, the prevention of high-profile crimes typical of major sporting events such as the biennial Olympics requires the presence of ICE agents. In the past, these officials claimed that the presence of U.S. intelligence prevented threats such as cybercrimes, human trafficking or even terrorist attacks. Despite the insistence of American officials, multiple Italian politicians, including Milan’s mayor, Giuseppe Sala, now call for the expulsion of the ICE officers.
“I think sending out ICE to the Olympics is stupid. Italy isn’t a part of the U.S., and U.S. Immigration has no power outside of U.S. borders. ICE has no right to foreign affairs. It’s a shame the U.S. government is enabling them to expand their power so much,” magnet sophomore Sophia Chen said.
At both the national and global scale, the hatred toward ICE agents climbs with the continued onslaught of violent shootings, arrests and unlawful detainments. Worldwide outrage sparked with the shootings of American citizens Rennee Good and Alex Pretti in Minnesota. Italian protestors gathered in the Piazza XXV Aprile square and chanted their names, acting as a stark reminder of the fascist regimes that plagued Western Europe throughout the 1900s. Multiple protestors referenced Adolf Hitler’s totalitarian regime whilst comparing his Gestapo to the current U.S. ICE agents.
“I don’t like what’s happening with ICE. I don’t want that to come here to Italy. We believe they are doing the same thing the fascists were doing in the 1930s and 1940s. It is clear they are not welcome in Milan, without a doubt,” protestor Francesco Tattoni said.
Slogans such as “ICE=Gestapo” and “ICE only in Spritz” highlight the immense opposition citizens worldwide feel toward the current political climate in the U.S.. These protests continue to draw attention to existing human rights violations and the severity of immigration enforcement as global issues. As the Olympics approach, officials expect the demonstration to continue, reflecting the newer generation’s willingness to take action against the increasing militarization and politicalization of a supposed peaceful event meant to foster international cooperation, celebrating sportsmanship and the appreciation of culture.
