In brief
President Trump openly stated his opposition to Somali immigrants, suggesting they should 'go back to where they came from.' His comments align with reports indicating an impending ICE operation in Minnesota, targeting undocumented Somali residents. Local officials warn that such actions could lead to unjust repercussions for American citizens within the community, which is one of the largest Somali populations in the U.S.
US President Donald Trump has said he does not want Somali immigrants in the US, telling reporters they should 'go back to where they came from' and 'their country is no good for a reason.'
I don't want them in our country, I'll be honest with you, he stated during a cabinet meeting. Trump insisted the US would 'go the wrong way if we keep taking in garbage into our country.'
His comments surfaced as immigration authorities were reportedly planning an enforcement operation in Minnesota's large Somali community, prompting condemnation from state officials.
Minneapolis and St Paul, known as the Twin Cities, house one of the largest Somali communities globally and the largest in the US.
Trump continued by criticizing Representative Ilhan Omar, stating, 'I always watch her,' and calling her 'incompetent.' Omar responded to Trump's comments, describing them as 'creepy.'
US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is set to target undocumented Somali immigrants this week, with expectations that hundreds will be affected by the operation.
Local leaders in Minnesota highlighted that the vast majority of the Somali population in the area are American citizens. They condemned the operation, asserting concerns that it would lead to violations of due process.
This crackdown follows heightened immigration enforcement from the Trump administration, particularly after a shooting incident involving two National Guard members in Washington DC.
The widespread actions have been criticized for targeting specific communities and not adequately addressing underlying issues related to public safety.
