Immigration enforcement operations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) increased in Chicago, the largest uptake since Operation Midway Blitz in September, 2025. That operation saw U.S. citizens temporarily detained.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and ICE changed their immigration enforcement strategy since Operation Midway Blitz. According to the Chicago Tribune, there’s been an uptake in arrests at courthouses and immigration meeting appointments. As of the first half of 2026, Chicago has the third highest number of removal orders after New York and Houston. After the initial surge, state leaders established the Illinois Accountability Commission. The Commission’s job is collecting evidence about ICE’ actions, including the agency’s leadership, and make accountability recommendations. Its final report came out in April, 2026.
As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, it’s particularly critical you get the right advice.