TORONTO, Canada – In a decisive move highlighting international tensions over immigration enforcement, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow has formally proposed banning US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from the city during the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The motion, presented on Friday and titled “No ICE in Toronto,” argues that the agency’s recent conduct demonstrates it brings “fear and disorder” rather than security.
The proposal contends that the visible presence of ICE agents would undermine the city’s objective of creating a welcoming and secure environment for global visitors. This initiative emerges as Toronto, alongside Vancouver, prepares to host matches for the first-ever World Cup co-hosted by three nations: the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Background information reveals that ICE maintains a permanent presence in five major Canadian cities, including Toronto, as listed on its official website. The mayor’s motion specifically references two recent incidents to justify the ban: a large-scale operation in Minnesota where federal immigration agents shot and killed two US citizen protesters, and prior protests during the Milan Winter Olympics against the inclusion of ICE agents in the US delegation’s security detail.
Organizers have previously anticipated that Toronto might see an influx of international fans who could be hesitant to travel to US host cities due to President Donald Trump’s stringent immigration policies. Mayor Chow’s motion explicitly states, “Unfortunately, the actions of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement have cast doubt on the ability of many to visit or live in the United States and beyond safely.” The proposal is now set for deliberation by the city council, placing a spotlight on cross-border law enforcement cooperation and public safety perceptions.