Homeland Security Assures Tribes ICE Does Not Target Native Americans

Letter from Secretary Kristi Noem addresses concerns about ICE operations on tribal lands

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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In a letter to tribal leaders, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) does not target Native Americans and has not conducted operations on tribal lands. Noem said ICE's mission is to apprehend and remove people unlawfully present in the U.S. and does not include targeting U.S. citizens based on appearance, ethnicity or community affiliation.

Why it matters

The letter follows outreach from tribal leaders and community members who expressed concerns about the recognition of tribal identification cards and ICE operations in areas with significant urban Native populations. This assurance from the federal government aims to address those concerns and clarify ICE's policies regarding Native Americans.

The details

In the letter, Noem wrote: 'To date, there have not been any ICE operations in tribal lands.' She said ICE's mission is 'singular and clear' — to apprehend and remove people unlawfully present in the United States — and does not include targeting U.S. citizens based on appearance, ethnicity or community affiliation.

  • The letter was sent on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026.

The players

Kristi Noem

Homeland Security Secretary.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

A federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that enforces immigration laws.

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What they’re saying

“To date, there have not been any ICE operations in tribal lands.”

— Kristi Noem, Homeland Security Secretary (Native News Online)

What’s next

The letter from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem aims to address ongoing concerns from tribal leaders and community members about ICE operations and the recognition of tribal identification cards.

The takeaway

This statement from the federal government provides assurance to Native American communities that ICE does not target or conduct operations on tribal lands, addressing an important issue of concern for tribal sovereignty and the safety of Indigenous people.