Federal Agents Arrest 800 Immigrants in Chicago Amid Gang Crackdown, Sparking Political Outcry

Federal immigration enforcement in Chicago has intensified under President Donald Trump's administration, marked by aggressive raids and military-style tactics in neighborhoods including South Shore and Little Village. Operations such as Operation Midway Blitz have involved hundreds of federal agents using helicopters and unmarked trucks to detain over 1,000 immigrants, many of whom are suspected of gang affiliations or criminal histories. These actions have led to criticism from local officials and communities due to the disruptive nature of raids, the involvement of children—including U.S. citizens—being taken into custody, and incidents of handcuffing elected officials. Many immigrants arrested, like Darwin Leal, were pursuing legal avenues such as asylum hearings or work permits but remain vulnerable under the renewed enforcement policies. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has condemned the tactics, describing the environment as a "war zone" due to the use of tear gas and other aggressive measures. This crackdown reflects the Trump administration's broader strategy to increase deportations and target alleged criminal elements within sanctuary cities, raising significant civil rights and community impact concerns.