A large-scale immigration enforcement push is underway in California, and it could shape the state’s debate over sanctuary policies for weeks. Federal officers have reportedly arrived from across the country, with the effort starting in the San Diego area and Los Angeles County.

The operation comes as the administration weighs how aggressively to pursue arrests and just ahead of the November midterms. Details come largely from anonymous sources, and the Department of Homeland Security has declined to discuss the specifics.

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From the Daily Wire:

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has deployed officers from across the country to California, a sanctuary state, in an operation expected to last 45 days, The Daily Wire has learned.

More than 250 ICE officers were deployed to Southern California in recent days to target illegal immigrants regardless of criminal history, according to Homeland Security sources.

A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said “ICE will not disclose or discuss law enforcement operations,” to protect “operational security and the safety of our officers.”

The Washington Examiner first reported the operation, which is called Operation Safe California. One source said it is expected to widen across the state as it progresses. Sources said California was chosen because its sanctuary policies limit cooperation with ICE. They said this allows people in the country illegally to leave local jails without being transferred to federal custody. California has restricted state and local help with federal immigration enforcement since 2017. Large-scale federal operations in Los Angeles in 2025 drew protests and national attention. Sources also said ICE notified offices nationwide and asked for volunteers before the operation began. California officials’ response was not included in the reporting reviewed.

The operation follows several recent shifts in ICE policy. Sources said officers were first told to stop arresting people who lack criminal records. DHS reversed that within hours of The Daily Wire’s reporting and cleared officers to make such arrests. A separate ICE memo set new traffic stop rules. Officers must complete specialized training before pulling vehicles over, and they may not chase drivers who refuse to stop. Instead, they are to gather vehicle and occupant details and the direction of travel for later investigation. DHS sources also said officers are under pressure to raise arrest numbers and are working six to seven days a week ahead of the midterms.

Scripture gives both government and the church a part in this debate. Romans 13:1-4 says governing authorities are established by God to uphold the law and restrain wrongdoing, and Proverbs 29:4 says a king gives a land stability through justice. Yet the Bible also calls God’s people to treat the foreigner with fairness and compassion. Leviticus 19:33-34 says the stranger among you should be treated as native-born. Enforcing the law and respecting human dignity do not have to compete. Officer safety, public safety, and the well-being of families, including children, all deserve serious attention as this operation unfolds.

Let’s pray for the ICE officers and local law enforcement involved, for their safety and sound judgment. Let’s pray for the families and children across California who may feel fear or uncertainty in the coming weeks. Let’s pray for President Donald Trump, Gov. Gavin Newsom, and local leaders to seek wisdom, truth, and justice. Let’s pray for peace in California’s communities, and for lawful, humane enforcement that protects the innocent.

How are you praying about this issue? Share your prayers and scriptures in the comments below.

(Excerpt from the Daily Wire. Photo Credit: vladislav seredkin via Getty Images).