ICE and Border Patrol Depart Terminal Island Base in Los Angeles
Federal immigration authorities have withdrawn from a U.S. Coast Guard facility on Terminal Island in San Pedro, California, which had been used as a staging ground for immigration operations across Southern California. The departure, confirmed on February 13, 2026, by U.S. Representative Nanette Barragán, follows months of concern from local communities and activists.
Confirmation of Withdrawal
Barragán stated she confirmed the withdrawal with the U.S. Coast Guard in Los Angeles and Long Beach. “It is not clear if this is permanent or if they will move to another location in Los Angeles County,” she noted on X. A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Community Response and Monitoring
Local officials and community groups have celebrated the agents’ departure. Supervisor Janice Hahn and Los Angeles Councilmember Tim McOsker, who represents the area, welcomed the news. “Even as I am still awaiting confirmation from the federal government of the demobilization, I believe these accounts to be true,” McOsker said in a statement. Hahn cautioned residents to remain vigilant, referencing tactics used by community groups to alert neighbors to immigration enforcement activity.
The Harbor Area Peace Patrols, a community organization that has been monitoring activity at the base, reported a gradual decrease in activity before the final withdrawal. “We have clear reports that ICE and CBP have mobilized from the Coast Guard base on Terminal Island. While we wait for final confirmation, we consider this a tentative victory for the people of Harbor Area,” the group stated. They plan to continue monitoring the area due to the lack of clarity regarding future federal plans.
Base Usage and Concerns
The Coast Guard base on Terminal Island had been used by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol as a staging point for operations since the summer of 2025. According to LAist, local officials indicated that additional activities were carried out at the facility for eight months, despite its official mission being administrative support and maintenance for maritime units. Concerns were raised about the lack of transparency regarding operations conducted from the base.
Future Operations and Vigilance
Barragán urged ICE to stay away from communities, stating, “We want ICE out of our communities.” Though, she also warned that federal agencies could reorganize and relocate to another location within Los Angeles County. Hahn echoed this sentiment, advising the public to remain attentive. Community activists have vowed to continue monitoring the area and to defend their communities against future enforcement actions.