U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations significantly impact both undocumented immigrants and American citizens, raising legal questions regarding the agency's authority, according to Nayna Gupta, Policy Director at the American Immigration Council. In a recent interview on Al Jazeera's Centre Stage, Gupta discussed the complexities of ICE's operational procedures and their far-reaching consequences.

Gupta explained that ICE's mandate involves enforcing immigration laws within the United States, which includes identifying, apprehending, and deporting individuals who are in the country without legal authorization. These operations often involve collaboration with local law enforcement agencies, raising concerns about racial profiling and the erosion of trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement. "The broad authority that ICE has been granted, and how that authority is used, has a chilling effect on communities," Gupta stated. "People are afraid to report crimes, to seek medical care, or to send their children to school."

The legal basis for ICE's authority stems from the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which grants the federal government broad powers to regulate immigration. However, the interpretation and implementation of these laws have been subject to legal challenges, particularly regarding due process rights and the separation of powers. Gupta highlighted that many ICE actions, such as workplace raids and prolonged detention, have been criticized for violating constitutional protections.

The impact of ICE operations extends beyond undocumented immigrants, affecting American families and communities. Gupta noted that many U.S. citizens have family members who are undocumented, and the threat of deportation can cause significant emotional and financial hardship. Furthermore, the deportation of workers can disrupt local economies, particularly in industries that rely heavily on immigrant labor.

The American Immigration Council advocates for comprehensive immigration reform that would provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants and address the root causes of migration. Gupta emphasized the need for policies that are both humane and effective, balancing border security with the protection of human rights. "We need to move away from a system that prioritizes enforcement over family unity and economic stability," Gupta argued. "A more sensible approach would be to create a system that recognizes the contributions of immigrants and provides them with a fair opportunity to become citizens."

As of January 2026, the debate over ICE's role and authority continues to be a contentious issue in American politics. Legal challenges to ICE's practices are ongoing, and advocacy groups are pushing for legislative reforms that would limit the agency's power and provide greater protections for immigrants. The future of ICE operations will likely depend on the outcome of these legal and political battles, as well as evolving public attitudes towards immigration.