Key facts
- Rumors circulated that President Donald Trump authorized an increased ICE operation in New York City.
- The timing of the alleged ICE surge was speculated to be retaliation for being booed at the NBA Finals.
- Fact-checkers determined the claim is misleading, with no evidence supporting the retaliation theory.
- An expanded ICE operation in New York City was approved by the administration, citing sanctuary policies.
- Operation Salvo, a separate ICE operation targeting the Trinitarios gang, began in July 2025.
- Protests against ICE operations and increased federal immigration enforcement took place in New York City.
Rumors circulated on social media alleging that President Donald Trump authorized a significant increase in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in New York City as a personal retaliation after being booed at Game 3 of the NBA Finals. Fact-checkers have deemed this claim misleading, stating there is no evidence to support the notion that the timing of the enforcement push was linked to Trump's attendance at the basketball game.
While the Trump administration has indeed approved a plan for a substantial increase in ICE agents in New York City, officials have attributed this decision to the city's sanctuary policies and a recently enacted state law that restricts cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Border Czar Tom Homan confirmed the operational plan, indicating that increased ICE presence was anticipated. These plans were reportedly in motion since at least May 2026, predating Trump's NBA Finals appearance.
Separately, an ICE operation named Operation Salvo was announced on January 8, 2026, by former Department of Homeland Security secretary Kristi Noem. This operation, which began in July 2025, aims to target the Trinitarios gang and has resulted in an increased ICE presence and at least 54 arrests in New York City. The announcement of Operation Salvo occurred amidst public outcry over ICE operations and protests against federal immigration enforcement actions. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani instructed city agencies to uphold sanctuary city laws and not assist ICE in making arrests, a stance echoed by Governor Kathy Hochul.