Federal agents clashed with anti-ICE activists outside an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility near Chicago on Friday, resulting in three arrests and the use of smoke to disperse demonstrators.

The confrontation occurred as agents attempted to drive vehicles out of the facility, with protesters blocking their path.

Among those present was Democratic congressional candidate Kat Abughazaleh, who attempted to stand in front of a vehicle before being moved aside by law enforcement.

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She later described the incident as a “violent abuse of power.”

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Speaking with reporters after the event, Abughazaleh said, “We have no weapons. We have signs and chants and songs, and they are treating us like it’s a war zone.”

The Department of Homeland Security issued a statement following the confrontation, making clear that interference with ICE operations would not be tolerated.

“Individuals and groups impeding ICE operations are siding with vicious cartels, human traffickers, and violent criminals. You will not stop @ICEgov and DHS law enforcement from enforcing our immigration laws,” the department said.

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DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin also responded directly to Abughazaleh’s role in the protest.

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“This fame-hungry, cable TV candidate is so desperate for her 15 minutes of fame that she will go so far as to put our law enforcement at risk and obstruct justice,” McLaughlin told Fox News Digital.

The arrests came as part of a larger pattern of demonstrations aimed at disrupting federal immigration enforcement efforts.

Protesters have escalated activity in several states, including recent incidents in New York where activists attempted to block ICE transport vehicles.

Officials said such efforts are not preventing the agency from carrying out its mission.

Friday’s events drew sharp attention due to the involvement of a political candidate and the response from federal officials.

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Law enforcement officers at the scene emphasized that protesters do not have the right to obstruct vehicles or interfere with officers performing their duties.

The three individuals arrested in Chicago face charges connected to obstruction and unlawful assembly.

Their identities were not immediately released.

ICE officials noted that agents have increasingly faced threats, doxxing, and harassment, contributing to security measures such as masking.

Protesters at the Chicago facility were also observed wearing masks during the demonstration.

Abughazaleh’s comments placed her at the center of debate over tactics used by activist groups attempting to disrupt federal immigration enforcement.

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Her remarks and subsequent response from DHS highlight the tensions between activists seeking to halt deportation operations and federal agencies charged with enforcing immigration law.

The Department of Homeland Security reaffirmed that ICE will continue to pursue its mission regardless of opposition.

Officials described the actions of protesters as counterproductive and dangerous, saying such disruptions can create risks for officers, detainees, and the public.

The Friday incident in Chicago adds to a series of confrontations across the country between ICE officers and activist groups.

While demonstrations are permitted under First Amendment protections, federal officials emphasized that physically blocking vehicles or attempting to impede operations crosses into unlawful conduct.

Federal officials said they expect security measures to remain in place at ICE facilities in response to continuing demonstrations.

DHS reiterated that law enforcement will not allow interference to stop immigration enforcement actions.

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