Ilhan Omar Calls ICE a ‘Rogue, Unlawful Paramilitary Force’ Occupying Minneapolis (VIDEO)
Screencap of Twitter/X video.
Minneapolis has become a focal point of national controversy following an expanded federal immigration enforcement operation that has drawn sharp criticism from local leaders and sparked demonstrations across the city.
In recent public remarks, Representative Ilhan Omar accused federal immigration enforcement officers of acting like an occupying force in Minneapolis — comments that have drawn both support and strong pushback from political figures.
Omar, who represents Minneapolis in Congress, has argued that the presence of ICE and other federal agents has created fear and disruption in local communities. She described the current situation in parts of the city as chaotic and harmful to everyday life, saying residents are afraid to go to school, hospitals, and even their own homes. Omar also called for accountability from federal leadership over the handling of recent enforcement actions, including urging the resignation of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.
Her comments come amid a wave of protests following several shootings involving federal agents during immigration operations. On Jan. 7, an ICE agent shot and killed 37‑year‑old Renee Good, an American citizen, during an enforcement action — an incident that drew widespread condemnation from local officials and civil rights advocates who disputed the federal account of what happened.
Rep. Ilhan Omar: Minneapolis Is Occupied By A Rogue, Unlawful Paramilitary Force
“There needs to be accountability for the architect of the terror we are facing in Minneapolis, and so many other cities, which is Stephen Miller. We need accountability for him now.” https://t.co/IuzXLLf2uy pic.twitter.com/V27dJT0tz7
— RCP Video (@rcpvideo) February 3, 2026
Another fatal shooting occurred later in January when federal agents shot and killed 37‑year‑old Alex Pretti, a licensed gun owner, during an immigration operation in Minneapolis. Footage verified by multiple outlets showed Pretti holding a cellphone and on the ground moments before he was shot, leading to a Justice Department civil rights investigation.
The heightened activity and use of force by federal officers have led Democrats in Congress to hold field hearings and call for greater oversight and accountability of ICE and other agencies. Critics argue the federal response has caused fear in immigrant communities and strained relationships with local law enforcement.
At the same time, supporters of the enforcement action emphasize the need for strict immigration law enforcement and back measures such as issuing body‑worn cameras to federal officers in Minneapolis to increase transparency. President Donald Trump has publicly supported the body‑camera initiative, calling it a tool that can help clarify enforcement encounters.
The political and community fallout continues as Minneapolis grapples with ongoing enforcement operations and leaders on both sides of the debate demand answers and action from federal and local authorities.
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