'Midway Blitz' ICE operation crackdown begins in Chicago as local leaders push back against President Donald Trump
Share this @internewscast.com

CHICAGO (WLS) — The federal government has officially started it’s immigration crackdown on the Chicago area.

They’re calling it “Operation Midway Blitz” and some local community leaders continue to fight back.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

The latest announced crackdown is aimed at undocumented immigrants in Illinois, highlighting the case of Katie Abraham. This 20-year-old woman from the Chicago area was killed in January after a vehicle, driven by an undocumented immigrant under the influence of alcohol, collided with her and her friends.

RELATED: Katie Abraham’s father speaks out on DHS’ operation ‘Midway Blitz’ in Chicago area

According to officials from the Trump administration, the operation is essential to capture undocumented individuals allegedly protected by sanctuary cities. However, advocates for immigrant rights argue that these actions incite fear and insecurity, asserting that they do not prioritize public safety.

“People who have contributed positively to society and have been productive members are now scared to leave their homes,” explained Chicago immigration attorney Justin Burton. “There is fear about attending court, traveling, going to work, and even sending their children to school.”

SEE ALSO: ICE confirms 4 Chicago-area arrests as Trump administration’s ‘Midway Blitz’ operation gets underway

Marcos Charles, an ICE official, stated, “We are conducting these operations to apprehend the criminal alien population that sanctuary city policies attract. Our goal is to remove them from the city, enhance public safety, strengthen national security, and ensure community safety, irrespective of political views. We are here to keep everyone safe.”

There’s plenty of resistance to the Trump administration’s anticipated immigration crackdown.

There are plans for local faith leaders to voice their opposition to the ICE operations on Tuesday in the West Side, along with any potential National Guard deployments in Chicago. In addition, a protest is scheduled for Tuesday evening.

Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Over 190,000 'lethal' doses of cocaine seized in Valentine's Day week bust at southern border

Massive Cocaine Haul: 190,000 Doses Confiscated in Border Operation During Valentine’s Week

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents at the Laredo Port of…
ICE ramps up deportation push with 92,600 new beds in $38.3B expansion

ICE Intensifies Deportation Efforts with $38.3 Billion Expansion, Adding 92,600 New Beds

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is planning to significantly increase its capacity…
Here are 3 simple ways to stay healthy and independent as you age, according to a doctor

Discover Three Expert-Backed Strategies for Maintaining Health and Independence in Your Golden Years

Today, the goal of longevity goes beyond merely reaching the centenarian milestone;…
Ernest Hemingway’s true love Nobel act

Unveiling the Heart: Ernest Hemingway’s Nobel Prize Love Story

On October 28, 1954, Ernest Hemingway received the news that he was…
This is the deepest Knicks team of the century. It should win the East

Knicks’ Depth Reaches Unprecedented Levels, Poised to Dominate Eastern Conference

The New York Knicks are gearing up for what could be their…
3 teens arrested after Glynn County carjacking incident leaves man shot in leg

Jacksonville Cop Arrested: Shocking Allegations of Assault at Local Business Emerge

This incident represents the fourth arrest involving a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office employee…
European nation votes to cap population at 10M in major immigration crackdown referendum

Historic Vote: European Nation Implements Landmark Population Cap in Bold Immigration Reform

Switzerland is gearing up for a pivotal vote this summer, as citizens…
Suspect, 17, arrested in Bronx triple shooting that killed 16-year-old

Teen Arrested in Connection with Bronx Triple Shooting That Left 16-Year-Old Dead

On Saturday afternoon, police apprehended a teenager in connection with a triple…
Donald Trump deportation news: US spent $40M on roughly 300 deportations to nations other than their own, Democratic report says

Report Reveals US Allocated $40M for Deporting Approximately 300 Individuals to Non-Native Countries, Citing Democratic Sources

WASHINGTON — A report from the Democratic staff of the Senate Foreign…
Socialist NY Rep Crashes and Burns on Global Stage, Serves Up Kamala-Style Word Salad

New York Socialist Representative Faces Global Criticism Over Incoherent Speech

Traditionally, American politicians have adhered to an unspoken rule: refrain from criticizing…
Ted Bundy’s cousin recalls the chilling moment that exposed the monster within

Ted Bundy’s Cousin Shares Haunting Moment Revealing His Dark Side

In the waning months of 1975, Edna Martin found herself in a…
European capital rocked by violent protests as government corruption probe fuels unrest

European Capital Engulfed in Turmoil Amidst Government Corruption Investigation

Earlier this week, the capital of Albania, Tirana, witnessed a dramatic clash…