The US government has announced a significant expansion of the powers of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, a move that could lead to the detention of recognized refugees who are waiting for their Green Cards. According to a memo dated February 18, the intent behind this expansion is to facilitate renewed scrutiny and assessment of these individuals. This initiative aligns with President Donald Trump's commitment to a rigorous crackdown on both legal and illegal immigration, reflecting the administration's hardline stance in this area.

The memo, which was submitted in a federal court case, outlines that refugees must return to detention for inspections and investigations one year after their arrival in the United States. Under US law, refugees are required to apply for permanent residency status one year after their entry into the country, a process that is now intricately linked to their potential detainment. This policy change marks a shift from the previous regulation established in 2010, which stipulated that lacking permanent residency status could not be grounds for deportation or detention, highlighting a significant tightening of immigration controls under the current administration.

The implications of this change are potentially far-reaching, as it not only affects the immediate status of refugees in the US but also reflects a broader trend of increased enforcement and scrutiny surrounding immigration policy. It raises concerns among immigration advocates about the impact on the lives of those seeking refuge in the US and prompts questions regarding the future trajectory of US immigration policy in the wake of more aggressive enforcement initiatives.