Tom Homan, a leading figure in border security, has strongly criticized progressive calls to abolish the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This comes at a time when border enforcement actions have reached unprecedented levels. Homan points out the record-breaking arrests and deportations facilitated by ICE, noting that seventy percent of those apprehended are convicted criminals. He further emphasizes the agency’s pivotal role in rescuing over 150,000 children smuggled across borders, highlighting the risks of dismantling ICE.
Recently, ICE has deported over 2,000 individuals with suspected ties to terrorism since President Donald Trump took office in January 2025, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). DHS indicates that ICE has arrested more than 2,150 suspected terrorists from January 20, 2025, to September 9, 2026, deporting 2,015 of them. The DHS announcement is set against the backdrop of the upcoming 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin praised the ongoing efforts of ICE personnel in protecting the nation and ensuring the safety of its citizens. He highlighted both the agency’s achievements and its commitment to maintaining constant vigilance.
The Trump administration’s immigration policies have fueled record arrest numbers, with ICE achieving its highest arrest totals in the agency’s history. Recent cases have put the spotlight on ICE’s activities, such as the arrest of Abraham Hermosillo Alvarez, accused of being the ringleader in a plot targeting the UFC Freedom 250 event. Alvarez, who had overstayed his visa and later acquired DACA status, was apprehended after ICE lodged a detainer post-arrest.
In another operation, ICE made a high-profile arrest in North Carolina, targeting Felipe Linares De Oliveira Dell Aquilla, a former commander of two terrorist organizations. During the operation, authorities recovered a handgun, cash, and electronic devices. Aquilla was wanted in Brazil for criminal association and extortion, and ICE placed a detainer following his capture.
Additionally, four members of Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua criminal organization pleaded guilty to charges related to a Bronx shooting in 2024, which killed two people. DHS reported that these individuals had unlawfully entered the U.S. between 2022 and 2023.
As the nation commemorates the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, nearly 3,000 lives lost in various locations including New York City, ICE’s role is underscored. Initiated as part of a major overhaul of homeland security apparatus, the creation of DHS in 2002 and ICE in 2003 marked significant developments. This anniversary stands as a reminder of ongoing efforts to avert further large-scale terrorist attacks on American soil.
Jasmine Baehr, a dedicated breaking news writer at Fox News Digital, covers various topics including politics, military affairs, legal debates on life and family policies, alongside faith and culture discussions.
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