Somali students in the US have reportedly been forced to remain in their dormitories as the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted raids across the country. During a cabinet meeting, President Donald Trump stated that he does not want Somalis in the US, despite them dominating Minnesota.
“I don’t want them in our country; I’ll be honest with you. Some of you say, Oh, that’s not politically correct, I don’t care. I don’t want them in our country,” read part of Trump’s speech
He also commented on the condition of Somalia, claiming that the Somalis do not contribute positively to the US.
“I hear they ripped off Somalians, ripped off that state for billions of dollars, billions, every year, billions of dollars, and they contribute nothing. The welfare is like 88 percent; they contribute nothing. Their country is no good for a reason. Their country stinks, and we don’t want them here. I could say that about other countries, too,” said Trump
ICE Raids Trigger Fear Among Somali Students in the US
Somali students have chosen to stay indoors following the alert on ICE operations around the country. According to a statement, despite some of the students being born in the US, they have decided not to attend studies for fear of being caught up in the operation.
“Today, Uof M Somali American students, most of them born here, hid in their dorms because of the unwarranted ICE raids,” read the statement.
Trump announced the ICE operation during the US’s last cabinet meeting on Tuesday, November 2, 2025, when addressing immigration in the country.
Also Read: Trump Mocks Democrats for Unsuccessfully Spending Millions in Tennessee Defeat
He stated that he did not want Somalis in his country as they were of no meaningful benefit and should go back to their country.
“We’re not going to put up with these kinds of assaults by people who shouldn’t even BE in our country!’ Billions lost, gangs of Somalians come from a country with no government, no laws, no water, no military, no nothing!” said Trump
He also criticized the Somali condition, calling it a stinky country.
However, his remarks have drawn mixed reactions, with some criticizing his statements.
“Somalia is a sovereign nation facing structural challenges, not a punchline for political rhetoric,” said Theophilus M
“That statement is simply not true. Somali Americans contribute every single day.” Said Sheikor A.
“He is so comfortable being openly hurtful, cursing in public, and disrespecting anyone with whom he doesn’t agree with” read a comment.
Why Minnesota
Minnesota hosts one of the largest Somali populations outside Africa, with thousands contributing to the state’s economy, education sector, and local businesses.
Minnesota Compass reports a total of 86,610 Somali Americans reside in the state, the largest population in the country.
The recent statements and enforcement actions have therefore heightened fear in the community, raising concerns about unfair targeting.
Also Read: Trump Stops All Immigration Applications from 19 Countries, Including Kenya’s Neighbors
The Community leaders in Minnesota have condemned this action, calling it a political move.
“Minneapolis has the most vibrant Somali American community in the nation. The city works every day to ensure Minneapolis is a welcoming place for all, regardless of immigration status,” said a Minnesota police officer.
ICE as the Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) deal with the deportation and removal of undocumented immigrants.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
