President Donald Trump intensified his criticism of Somali immigrants during a lengthy Cabinet meeting at the White House. He asserted that Somali immigrants contribute nothing to the United States and depend heavily on welfare programmes. He also urged them to “go back” to their homeland and “fix it.”
Trump claimed Somali immigrants drain public resources and offer no economic value. He said Somali arrivals “contribute nothing” and rely on welfare at high rates. He added that he does not want them in the country.
He further criticised Somalia, saying the nation “stinks” and produces migrants who bring “nothing” to the United States. He repeated these remarks moments later and warned that the country faces a “tipping point.” He said the United States will “go the wrong way” if it continues to accept what he described as “garbage.”
Comments follow halt of asylum decisions
The remarks came as the administration froze all asylum decisions after last week’s shooting of two National Guard soldiers in Washington, DC. Authorities said an Afghan refugee allegedly carried out the attack. One Guardsman died, and another remains in critical condition.
Trump used the incident to intensify demands for what he calls “reverse migration.” He urged the removal of legal immigrants, including Somalis, and promised to “permanently pause migration from all Third World countries.”
ICE prepares targeted operation in Minneapolis
Officials said US Immigration and Customs Enforcement is preparing an operation targeting Somali immigrants in Minneapolis. Minnesota hosts about 40,000 residents born in Somalia, according to US Census estimates. ICE plans to deploy around 100 officers from several states to support the effort. The operation will primarily target Somalis with outstanding deportation orders.
However, most Somali-Americans in the Minneapolis–St Paul region hold citizenship, permanent residency or another legal status.
Political criticism increases
Trump also directed personal attacks at Rep. Ilhan Omar, who represents Minneapolis in Congress. He called Omar “garbage” and extended the label to “her friends.” Omar responded that Trump’s “obsession” with her appears “creepy” and said he needs professional help.
The impending ICE operation follows Trump’s pledge to revoke Temporary Protected Status for Somalis in Minnesota. He previously cited a federal healthcare fraud probe in the state, although prosecutors did not link the case to immigration status.
