Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum has strongly condemned the United States over the deaths of two Mexican nationals during immigration raids conducted by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The incidents have sparked outrage in Mexico and intensified criticism of what Ms Sheinbaum called Washington's "cruel" and "inhumane" anti-migrant policies.

The victims, named as Ismael Ayala-Uribe and Silverio Villegas Gonzalez, died during ICE operations and subsequent detentions in the US. Speaking at her daily press conference in Mexico City, Ms Sheinbaum described the deaths as a direct result of the US criminalizing migration.

"These raids spread fear, distress, and now death," she said. "This is unacceptable treatment of human beings." Mexico has issued a formal diplomatic note to Washington, demanding a full investigation and accountability for those responsible.

Mexico Promises Support for MigrantsIn response to the deaths, Ms Sheinbaum announced emergency measures to support Mexicans living in the US. These include a dedicated hotline, expanded legal advice services, and technical assistance for affected communities. She vowed that Mexico would not abandon its citizens facing increasingly aggressive US enforcement tactics.

Criticism of US PolicyMs Sheinbaum sharply criticised US immigration policies, arguing they harm both migrants and the American economy. She noted that industries such as agriculture and services rely heavily on migrant labour, and that raids disrupt businesses. "Employers cannot hire enough workers because of these actions," she said.

Highlighting the contributions of Mexican migrants, she pointed out that they send billions of dollars in remittances to Mexico while supporting the US economy. "Their work sustains families and communities. To repay them with persecution and death is an injustice," she added.

Human Rights ConcernsThe deaths have drawn international attention to US immigration practices, with human rights groups condemning ICE raids as discriminatory and heavy-handed. Ms Sheinbaum echoed these concerns, urging the US to end policies that "criminalize survival" and to respect the rights and dignity of vulnerable populations.

"The deaths of Mr Ayala-Uribe and Mr Villegas Gonzalez are not isolated incidents—they are part of a pattern of systemic abuse," she said.

Mexico's forceful response underscores growing tensions with the US over immigration enforcement, as Ms Sheinbaum pledges to protect Mexican nationals and hold Washington accountable. (ILKHA)