Islamabad, June 9, 2025: Tensions surged in downtown Los Angeles as California National Guard troops took to the streets on Sunday, responding to ongoing protests against President Trump’s aggressive immigration enforcement policies. The move, ordered by the Trump administration, has been condemned by California Governor Gavin Newsom, who labeled the federal deployment “unlawful.“
The presence of uniformed troops was evident near federal buildings as demonstrators clashed with police. Several protests turned chaotic, prompting Los Angeles police to declare multiple assemblies unlawful after objects like concrete and bottles were hurled at officers. In a shocking display of unrest, self-driving vehicles from Waymo were set ablaze downtown.
Videos circulating on social media showed protesters confronting law enforcement, chanting “shame on you,” and obstructing major routes like the 101 Freeway. Many carried Mexican flags and signs criticizing ICE and federal immigration raids, while organized speakers addressed crowds outside City Hall under the banner of the Party for Socialism and Liberation.
Governor Newsom vehemently opposed the deployment of approximately 2,000 National Guard troops, accusing Trump of violating state sovereignty and instigating conflict. “These are the acts of a dictator,” Newsom wrote on X. The White House defended the deployment, citing “lawlessness and chaos.”
Officials confirmed that 300 California National Guard members were stationed in three key areas, focused solely on securing federal assets. Video footage captured Homeland Security officers pushing back protesters outside a federal complex.
President Trump, in a social media statement, described the demonstrators as “violent, insurrectionist mobs,” and directed his cabinet to take “all necessary action” to suppress the Los Angeles protests 2025. Speaking in New Jersey, he added, “They spit, we hit,” in response to alleged incidents targeting law enforcement.
Meanwhile, the FBI has offered a $50,000 reward for information regarding a rock-throwing suspect in Paramount that left a federal officer injured.
Marines on Standby as Tensions Escalate
Despite heightened rhetoric, Trump has not invoked the Insurrection Act of 1807, which would allow federal military action during civil unrest. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed 500 Marines at Camp Pendleton are on alert, ready to act if violence escalates.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass placed blame squarely on the federal government for aggravating the situation but also condemned the violent elements among protesters. “We can’t allow ourselves to fall into the chaos orchestrated by the administration,” she said.
Immigration advocacy groups have criticized the raids, with Vanessa Cárdenas of America’s Voice calling the operation a “deliberate provocation” and abuse of executive power.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the National Guard’s role was to provide safety to peaceful demonstrators and federal staff.
President Trump has pledged to deport historic numbers of undocumented immigrants and directed ICE to increase daily arrests to 3,000. However, critics highlight that even legal residents and green card holders have been swept up in the crackdown.
Read More: Geostrategic Importance of Pakistan: A Key Player in South Asia
Mexico Responds to U.S. Immigration Sweep
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum criticized the U.S. over its handling of immigration, warning that raids and military presence won’t resolve the crisis. “We need reform and dialogue, not force,” she emphasized at a public event.
Trump’s justified the troop deployment citing Title 10 of the U.S. Code, though legal experts note it requires coordination with state governors. It’s unclear whether federal authorities have the right to override Governor Newsom’s refusal under this provision.
According to Trump’s memo, the troops are tasked with protecting ICE personnel and federal property where protests are likely to continue.
Read More: Iran to Reveal Israeli Secret Documents Soon
