ICE Official Blasts Politicians: Urges Action to Protect Immigration Agents and Remove Threats

Acting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director Todd Lyons has delivered an urgent plea to political leaders, warning that inflammatory rhetoric is putting federal law enforcement officers at risk. In a recently released video message, Lyons called on elected officials to refrain from inciting public outrage surrounding ICE’s activities, specifically targeting Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries for what he described as “ridiculous rhetoric and inflammatory comments” that are “hurting” not only agents but also the broader community.

The controversy escalated after Mayor Wu, during recent public remarks, claimed citizens in Boston were living in fear of federal agents she likened to “secret police,” stating that people were being “snatched off the street” by officers wearing masks who provided no justification for their actions. Responding to mounting criticism about the use of masks by ICE agents, U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts Leah Foley clarified that officers have resorted to covering their faces due to increased threats against themselves and their families — a situation she attributed to “false narratives” propagated by local politicians. Foley emphasized that such measures were necessary to safeguard agents facing harassment, doxxing, and even physical attacks.

Mayor Wu’s comments triggered a rare public rebuke from the Department of Homeland Security, which posted a strongly worded statement condemning any comparison between ICE agents and extremist groups. The DHS noted a 413% increase in assaults on ICE officers, insisting that agents clearly identify themselves as law enforcement despite the need for face coverings during risky operations targeting dangerous individuals, including gang members, murderers, and rapists. The department asserted, “Attacks and demonization of our brave law enforcement is WRONG.”

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries weighed in this week by promising to pursue full accountability for any ICE agents involved in what he termed “aggressive overreach” or attempts to hide their identities. Jeffries declared that agents would be identified “no matter what it takes, no matter how long it takes,” referencing recent incidents involving Democratic lawmakers and federal enforcement authorities, including a confrontation involving Rep. LaMonica McIver of New Jersey. While McIver claimed she was “shoved” by ICE officers, federal prosecutors have since charged her with impeding and interfering with law enforcement.

In another high-profile episode, federal agents reportedly “forcefully entered” an office belonging to Rep. Jerry Nadler’s staff in Manhattan during a security check, temporarily detaining an individual who allegedly attempted to block their entry. DHS later explained that the Federal Protective Service responded following reports of protesters inside the office, conducted identification procedures, and released all parties without further incident.

The debate over ICE’s operational tactics has intensified following news of the largest-ever enforcement action in a blue state, resulting in nearly 1,500 arrests. The operation and the subsequent controversy highlight ongoing tensions between federal agencies seeking to enforce immigration laws and local leaders who are increasingly vocal in their opposition. Both Mayor Wu and Leader Jeffries have yet to issue additional statements in response to these latest developments.