The Los Angeles protests that began in early June 2025 are still ongoing, with demonstrations intensifying in response to aggressive immigration raids carried out by ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement). The protests erupted after the Trump administration targeted workplaces in Los Angeles, including the Fashion District and Home Depot, leading to hundreds of arrests.
On June 9, 2025, President Donald Trump deployed 700 U.S. Marines and 2,000 National Guard troops without the consent of California Governor Gavin Newsom. This unprecedented move marked the first time since 1965 that the National Guard has been federalized without state approval. State and local officials, including Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, condemned the deployment as unconstitutional and filed a lawsuit.
Protests spread beyond downtown Los Angeles to areas like Compton and Paramount, turning increasingly violent. Demonstrators clashed with law enforcement, with incidents of looting, arson, and police brutality reported. The arrest of SEIU labor leader David Huerta and injuries to multiple journalists added fuel to the fire.
President Trump labeled the protests an “insurrection” and hinted at the possibility of arresting the California governor. The international community, including leaders from Australia, the UK, and Japan, criticized the U.S. response and issued travel advisories for Los Angeles. Former U.S. officials also voiced concern over what they called a “slide into authoritarianism.”
With Los Angeles set to host the 2028 Olympic Games and the FIFA World Cup, the unrest is raising alarms over public safety and international reputation. The ongoing civil unrest could jeopardize the city’s preparedness and global image.