Trump Agrees to End Deportation Surge in Minnesota, Says US Border Chief

February 12, 2026 • Al Jazeera

Trump Agrees to End Deportation Surge in Minnesota, Says US Border Chief

US Border Security Chief Announces Conclusion of Federal Operation in Minnesota

A federal operation involving 700 immigration agents is set to conclude in Minnesota, according to US Border Security Chief Tom Homan. The operation, known as Operation Metro Surge, was launched on December 1 and aimed to target individuals deemed a risk to public safety.

Homan stated that the operation’s goal was to make Minnesota “less of a sanctuary state for criminals.” He also announced that ICE operations will continue in the state, focusing on identifying and removing individuals who pose a threat to public safety.

The operation has resulted in the arrest of over 4,000 people, including those with no criminal records. Federal authorities have confirmed that the sweeps focused on the Minneapolis-St Paul metro area.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed concerns about the impact of the operation, stating that it left “deep damage” and “generational trauma.” Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey also welcomed the announcement, likening the operation to a military occupation.

The Trump administration’s handling of the operation has been widely criticized, with many people expressing opposition to ICE’s tactics. According to reports from the White House, the operation was seen as a public relations disaster for President Donald Trump, with widespread criticism from both Democrats and Republicans.

As the federal operation comes to an end, US legislators are holding hearings to question government officials about the immigration crackdown in Minnesota.

Source: Al Jazeera