The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has opened investigations into what it categorizes as domestic terrorism related to threats against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities in at least 23 regions across the United States. An internal report, dated November 14, indicates that these investigations are partly a response to a memo issued by former President Donald Trump in September, which called for a national strategy to combat what it termed 'violent and terroristic activities' associated with anti-fascism.

The memo, known as NSPM-7, identified various ideologies, including anti-Americanism and anti-capitalism, as threats and cited protests against ICE in cities like Los Angeles and Portland as examples of political violence. The FBI's report warns of increased threats targeting government personnel involved in immigration enforcement, referencing two violent incidents against ICE facilities in Texas. It claims that recent attacks have escalated in violence compared to previous incidents, which primarily resulted in property damage.

The report outlines indicators that may suggest an individual is planning an attack against ICE, including stockpiling firearms and conducting online research about ICE personnel. Civil rights advocates have expressed concern that the vague language in the FBI's report could lead to unwarranted surveillance of individuals engaged in lawful protest activities, potentially infringing on First Amendment rights.

The FBI's investigations have been criticized for their broad scope, with civil liberties groups arguing that they may target individuals based on their political beliefs rather than any actual criminal conduct. The report also highlights that the FBI has faced scrutiny for its surveillance of activists opposing ICE, including monitoring private communications of volunteers involved in immigration court oversight.

The Trump administration has claimed a significant increase in assaults on ICE officers, asserting a 1,000% rise, although this claim has not been substantiated with evidence. Investigations into specific incidents have often revealed that many alleged attacks resulted in no injuries to agents. The FBI's report suggests that the agency is expanding its focus to include not only individuals but also organizations that may support or fund anti-ICE activities, raising concerns about the potential chilling effect on civil society and nonprofit organizations.

In summary, the FBI's recent actions reflect a broader trend of heightened scrutiny and potential criminalization of dissent against immigration enforcement policies, raising significant questions about the balance between national security and civil liberties.