Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is raising alarms over what she calls a “surge” in violent threats and attacks against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, blaming inflammatory rhetoric from Democratic leaders for creating a dangerous climate.
Speaking Thursday on Fox & Friends, Noem said ICE officers are increasingly being targeted simply for enforcing federal law.
“Some Democrat leaders in these states and cities are stoking emotions and spreading falsehoods that put officers’ lives at risk,” Noem said. “These men and women are just upholding the rule of law. This environment we’re in—it’s truly unprecedented.”
Spike in Attacks, Alarming Statistics
Her comments follow a disturbing July 4 attack in Alvarado, Texas, where ICE agents were ambushed near a migrant facility. According to DHS, assailants used fireworks and spray-painted anti-ICE slurs like “traitor” and “ICE pig” on agents’ vehicles to draw them into a trap. Gunfire erupted, and a local police officer was shot in the neck. The officer is expected to recover.
Noem said the attack is part of a broader and disturbing trend. DHS data shared with Fox News shows a nearly 700% increase in assaults on ICE officers compared to the same time last year.
“This level of violence and disrespect for law enforcement is dangerous,” she said. “We’re seeing coordinated, targeted attacks on officers just doing their jobs.”
Tensions Rise as Anti-ICE Protests Spread
Tensions around immigration enforcement have intensified across the country. Violent protests broke out in Los Angeles last month, and several Democratic-run cities have refused to cooperate with federal immigration efforts. Critics accuse the Trump administration of weaponizing ICE to advance a political agenda, claiming immigration raids have destabilized communities and instilled fear.
Noem dismissed those accusations and said elected officials’ rhetoric is putting ICE agents and their families in real danger.
“I think carefully about every word I say because I’m responsible for these officers,” Noem said. “It’s a heavy burden, knowing that someone’s life could be on the line.”
Doxxing, Kidnapping Threats, and Growing Concerns
The secretary also condemned a website allegedly used to expose ICE agents’ identities, noting that many officers wear masks to protect their families from retaliation. She said the site has led to direct threats of violence and even kidnapping.
“These people are talking about kidnapping ICE agents’ families and targeting their coworkers,” Noem warned. “This rhetoric is not just reckless—it’s life-threatening.”
Standing by ICE and the Mission
Despite the growing threats, Noem insisted that ICE will not back down. She highlighted the agency’s efforts in locating thousands of missing migrant children who came into the country through the Biden-era sponsorship program, many of whom, she said, were later abused or trafficked.
“These ICE officers are patriots,” Noem said. “They go out every day to make our streets safer, and no amount of intimidation will change that.”
She ended her remarks by encouraging Americans to publicly support law enforcement.
“If you know a law enforcement officer, thank them. Cook their family a meal, support them, speak up for them,” she said. “Now’s the time to stand with those who keep us safe.”
