Tension in the streets: Protesters clash with border patrol personnel in riot gear during demonstration against ICE raids in Los Angeles
US President Donald Trump has deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles amid escalating protests over immigration raids.
The move comes after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers executed search warrants across the city, leading to clashes between protesters and law enforcement.
The White House stated that Trump’s decision to deploy the National Guard is aimed at addressing the “lawlessness that has been allowed to fester” in California.
“The Trump Administration has a zero tolerance policy for criminal behavior and violence, especially when that violence is aimed at law enforcement officers trying to do their jobs,” the statement read.
“These criminals will be arrested and swiftly brought to justice” .
Potential Military Deployment
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that active-duty Marines at Camp Pendleton may also be mobilized if violence continues.
“If violence continues, active duty Marines at Camp Pendleton will also be mobilized — they are on high alert,” he wrote on X.
California Governor Gavin Newsom objected to the deployment, calling it “purposefully inflammatory and will only escalate tensions.”
He urged protesters to remain peaceful, saying, “Don’t give them one. Never use violence. Speak out peacefully.”
Newsom also stated that the federal government is “sowing chaos so they can have an excuse to escalate. That is not the way any civilized country behaves”.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed concern over the situation, saying, “Many in our community are feeling fear following recent federal immigration enforcement actions across Los Angeles County.”
She emphasized the right to peaceful protest, adding, “Everyone has the right to peacefully protest, but let me be clear: violence and destruction are unacceptable, and those responsible will be held accountable” ¹.
The situation remains tense, with ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons vowing to continue enforcing immigration laws and arresting “criminal illegal aliens.”
The deployment of National Guard troops has sparked controversy, with some lawmakers calling for calm and others supporting Trump’s stance on immigration.
