Trump Administration Guidance on ICE Arrests Sparks Backlash, Rescinded Within Hours

A brief verbal instruction sent to ICE field offices suggested a pause on arrests of illegal immigrants without criminal histories. The guidance was withdrawn within hours after criticism from immigration hawks and lawmakers. President Trump said the administration’s enforcement posture had not changed, emphasizing a focus on the “worst first.” DHS officials called the instruction a misunderstanding, and a new directive reaffirmed the unchanged policy. The episode highlighted ongoing tensions over work‑site enforcement, with some Republicans accusing the administration of a narrower approach than promised. The controversy also underscored the political divide within the GOP over immigration enforcement priorities.