Minnesota National Guard Placed on Standby After Pro-ICE and Anti-ICE Protesters Clash in Downtown Minneapolis
Published: January 17th, 2026
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA: Tensions flared in downtown Minneapolis on Saturday afternoon, January 17, 2026, after anti-ICE and pro-ICE demonstrators clashed during competing protests, prompting a heightened public-safety response and the mobilization of the Minnesota National Guard to support local authorities if needed.
Following the confrontations, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety announced that, at the direction of Gov. Tim Walz, the Minnesota National Guard has been mobilized and is staging to assist local law enforcement and emergency management agencies.
State officials emphasized that Guard members have not been deployed to city streets at this time. Instead, they remain on standby, prepared to help maintain public safety should conditions warrant. According to the Department of Public Safety, the Guard’s potential role would focus on the protection of life, preservation of property, and support for the constitutional rights of individuals to assemble peacefully.
The Minnesota National Guard reiterated that its members are ready to assist if activated and noted that Guard personnel would be clearly identifiable. If deployed, members would wear reflective vests to distinguish them from other agencies operating in similar uniforms (pictured below).
Authorities have not released information indicating widespread injuries or arrests as a result of the clashes. Law enforcement continues to monitor the situation closely, with a stated goal of de-escalation and ensuring the safety of demonstrators, bystanders, and first responders.
Officials urged those participating in demonstrations to remain peaceful and to follow lawful instructions from public safety personnel. The situation remains fluid, and additional updates are expected as authorities continue to assess conditions in Minneapolis.
Written by Will Wight.
Photos provided by the Department of Public Safety and the Minnesota National Guard.
