Ankara: Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Friday criticized the use of Mexico's national flag in violent protests in the United States, labeling it a 'provocation' aimed at damaging the country's image. She addressed the issue during a press conference, highlighting her concerns over the portrayal of the Mexican flag in violent contexts.

According to Anadolu Agency, Sheinbaum emphasized that the appearance of the Mexican flag during violent acts, specifically an incident involving a person with the flag atop a burning police car, seemed designed to provoke and tarnish Mexico's reputation. She expressed her belief that such imagery intends to create a negative impression of Mexico.

In addition to her remarks on the flag, Sheinbaum condemned the recent detention of migrants in the US, expressing Mexico's opposition to the raids while advocating for non-violent responses. She reported that at least 61 Mexican nationals were detained in Los Angeles during recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, with some already deported. Sheinbaum criticized the lack of due process for many detainees and noted that Mexican consular staff are providing legal assistance.

Sheinbaum urged Mexicans living in the US to exercise their right to protest peacefully and avoid engaging in violent acts. Her comments come in the wake of protests in Los Angeles, triggered by ICE raids on local businesses, resulting in the detention of hundreds of individuals suspected of residing in the US without legal documentation. During these demonstrations, a man was seen waving the Mexican flag in front of a burning, graffiti-covered car amid clashes targeting ICE.