Security forces clash with demonstrators following their deployment in Los Angeles, instigated by orders from President Trump.
In the heart of downtown L.A., protests intensified on June 8, 2025, following ICE raids and the National Guard's surprising involvement. Here's the lowdown:
The commotion started with ICE swooping in for surprise sweeps in the Fashion District and other parts of the city. The raids targeted numerous individuals and caused a stir among the local community [1][2].
President Trump, in response, deployed the National Guard to support these operations. The move sparked criticism from local officials like Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass [1][2].
Thousands of protesters took to the streets, expressing their frustration over the immigration crackdown and the National Guard's presence. The protests were far from peaceful, with clashes with law enforcement, the use of tear gas and rubber bullets, and even self-driving cars being set on fire [3].
On June 8, chaos reached a boiling point in the Fashion District during a raid. Federal agents responded with flash-bang grenades and pepper spray against demonstrators [2]. Hundreds rallied outside the Los Angeles Federal Building, pleading for the release of detained individuals, including a well-known union leader [2].
The aftermath saw over 100 immigrants being arrested during the LA raids, and many protesters being taken into custody as well [1][2]. The deployment of the National Guard without a request from Governor Newsom was viewed as a breach of state sovereignty, prompting calls for their removal [1].
The operations and protests left a deep impact on the immigrant community, creating fear and tension. Community leaders deemed the actions "cruel and unnecessary" [2].
- Amidst the escalating protests and war-and-conflicts surrounding the ICE raids, questions about the government's involvement in defense policies and politics have been raised, particularly concerning the National Guard's deployment without a request from the state government.
- As the general news continues to unfold, the government faces mounting pressure to reconsider its immigration strategies, especially in war-and-conflicts, considering the impact on local communities and the breach of state sovereignty due to the National Guard's presence during the LA raids, raising concerns about politics and defense policies.