World Cup: No ICE deployment; extra security for Iran games in Los Angeles

Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will not conduct civil immigration enforcement at FIFA World Cup games or related events in Los Angeles. This decision follows protests by stadium workers concerned about anti-immigrant crackdowns. Federal agents will be present for overall security, but specifically for immigration enforcement, they will not be deployed. Increased security staffing will be implemented for the two Iran World Cup games hosted in Los Angeles due to heightened global tensions. Authorities are also enforcing strict restrictions on drone usage around World Cup venues.

Immigrant rights groups in 11 US World Cup host cities are mobilizing to protect fans and residents from potential immigration enforcement activities. Over 120 organizations have issued a travel warning to 10 million visitors about "serious rights violations" under the current administration, including risks of arrest and deportation. Labor unions and civil rights groups are taking proactive measures, such as threatening strikes at venues and distributing information on legal aid. While the Department of Homeland Security states its priority is a safe environment, activists are concerned about increased security leading to unintended detentions. Efforts include bolstering rapid response networks, legal aid resources, and advocating for non-cooperation with ICE by local police.