Trump Administration Agrees to End ICE Operation in Minnesota
The White House has announced it will conclude a major Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation in Minnesota, following months of controversy and protests. Tom Homan, the president's border czar leading the anti-immigration campaign, confirmed the decision at a press conference on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
Operation Metro Surge to Wind Down
Launched on December 1, Operation Metro Surge deployed approximately 3,000 armed ICE agents to Minnesota, with a particular focus on Minneapolis, the state's largest city. Federal authorities reported that the operation led to the arrest of more than 4,000 individuals. Homan stated, "As a result of our efforts here, Minnesota is now less of a sanctuary state for criminals." He added, "I have proposed and President Trump has concurred that this surge operation conclude."
Controversy and Protests Escalate
The operation sparked significant backlash, with widespread protests against ICE agents across the state. The situation turned deadly when two protesters were killed during confrontations. Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, was shot dead by an ICE agent while in her car; authorities claimed the shooting was in self-defense. Shortly after, Alex Pretti, an intensive care nurse, was wrestled to the ground by federal agents and shot multiple times.
These incidents fueled public outrage and intensified calls for the operation's termination. Critics argued that the aggressive tactics endangered lives and violated civil liberties, while supporters maintained it was necessary for border security.
Impact and Aftermath
The decision to end Operation Metro Surge marks a significant shift in the administration's immigration enforcement strategy in the region. It highlights the ongoing tension between federal immigration policies and local resistance, particularly in sanctuary jurisdictions. The move is expected to ease tensions in Minnesota, but it also raises questions about future ICE operations nationwide.
As the story develops, further details on the timeline and implications of the operation's conclusion are anticipated. The administration has not yet specified what will replace the surge or how it will address immigration concerns in Minnesota moving forward.
