Several outlets report that on July 11, 2025, former President Trump issued a sharp directive via Truth Social while returning from Texas. He said he “watched in disbelief as THUGS were violently throwing rocks and bricks at ICE Officers,” causing “tremendous damage” to their vehicles. He then instructed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Border Czar Tom Homan to direct ICE, CBP, and other law enforcement officers to:
This directive came after violence during raids on cannabis farms in Ventura County, California (on July 10), where agents arrested about 200 undocumented workers. Protesters reportedly pelted federal vehicles with rocks and bricks; agents responded with tear gas and flashbangs The Daily Beast+2The Guardian+2MEAWW News+2.
Trump emphasized that ICE now has “total authorization to protect itself” and must prevent any future attacks on law enforcement vehicles Anadolu Ajansı+9The Guardian+9yourNEWS+9.
Highlights & Reaction
Aggressive tone: Trump’s message was explicitly forceful, urging robust arrests and labeling attackers “SLIMEBALLS” Good Morning America+12mint+12yourNEWS+12.
Criticism from officials: California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the approach as “inhumane” and chaotic The Times of India+6The Guardian+6Anadolu Ajansı+6.
Legal and financial backing: This comes alongside a dramatic increase in ICE’s budget—from around $8 billion to $28 billion—and a planned hire of 10,000 new agents The Guardian+1beettansavannah.com+1.
Context & Implications
Aspect Details
Location Violence occurred July 10 in Camarillo & Carpinteria, Ventura County, CA during ICE raids.
Stance Trump directed enforcement “by any means necessary” against violent protesters.
Reactions Support from conservative media, criticism from Democrats and rights advocates.
Legal pushback A federal judge in Los Angeles recently limited certain stops and arrests BostonGlobe.com+10MEAWW News+10mint+10MEAWW News+5Anadolu Ajansı+5The Daily Beast+5The Daily Beast.
Bottom line:
Trump has empowered ICE and related agencies to use all available force—including stopping vehicles and arresting people—for anyone attacking them with rocks, bricks, or other projectiles during enforcement operations.
