Los Angeles, June 8, 2025 — President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles following two days of intense protests against recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. The decision, announced early Sunday, comes after clashes between demonstrators and federal agents in areas such as Paramount and Compton.(washingtonpost.com, reuters.com)
The protests erupted after ICE conducted raids at various locations, including Home Depot stores and a doughnut shop, leading to the detention of over 45 individuals, many of whom were suspected to be Mexican nationals. Demonstrators, some waving Mexican flags and chanting anti-ICE slogans, gathered in response to what they described as "random sweeps" targeting immigrant communities.(washingtonpost.com)
In response to the unrest, federal agents employed tear gas, flash-bang explosives, and pepper balls to disperse crowds. Videos from the scene showed protesters hurling rocks and cement at Border Patrol vehicles, while small fires burned in the streets. The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed it was not involved in the immigration raids and had no prior coordination with ICE. Despite this, the LAPD assisted in crowd control during the protests.(military.com, washingtonpost.com)
President Trump characterized the demonstrations as "violent insurrection" and criticized local leadership, including Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsom, for their handling of the situation. The White House described the protests as violent, and officials like Stephen Miller labeled them an “insurrection,” although the Insurrection Act has not been invoked. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated that active-duty troops, including Marines from Camp Pendleton, may be mobilized if violence continues. (theguardian.com, reuters.com)
Governor Newsom condemned the deployment, calling it "purposefully inflammatory" and asserting that local law enforcement had the situation under control. Mayor Bass echoed these sentiments, labeling the raids as "terrorizing" to immigrant communities. Both officials have expressed concerns over the federal government's approach to immigration enforcement. (washingtonpost.com, reuters.com)
Civil rights groups have raised alarms over the treatment of detainees, reporting restricted legal access and inadequate conditions. The protests highlight ongoing tensions between the Trump administration's strict immigration policies and the diverse, immigrant-rich communities of Los Angeles.(reuters.com)
As of early Sunday, National Guard troops were seen assembling at a federal building in downtown Los Angeles. The situation remains fluid, with authorities monitoring developments closely.(reuters.com)
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information as of June 8, 2025. Details may evolve as new information becomes available.
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