LA Braces as ICE Raids Spark Widespread Protests

Since June 6, coordinated ICE raids across Los Angeles—including locations like Home Depot parking lots and garment warehouses—have ignited massive protests.

Over 330 people have been detained, with at least 411 arrests reported as of June 12, as federal forces clash with demonstrators.

Escalation in Protests and Curfew Enforcement

Protests escalated rapidly—rock-throwing and fireworks led to the issuance of an 8 p.m.–6 a.m. curfew in downtown LA. Riot police, National Guard cavalry, and Marines were deployed to enforce order. More than 400 arrests have taken place, including prominent figures like labor leader David Huerta.

Military on the Streets: National Guard and Marines Step In

Under a federal Title 10 order, President Trump deployed about 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines—a move resisted by Governor Newsom and the ACLU, who filed lawsuits calling it an unprecedented federal overreach. Marines and Guardsmen are authorized to detain civilians interfering with ICE operations, though they’re not carrying live ammo.

Clashing Narratives: Federal vs. Local Leaders

Additionally, federal officials argue the raids targeted serious offenders—ICE has publicized arrests of individuals convicted of violent crimes and child sex offenses. They say protesters defend criminals, not families.

Moreover, local leaders, including Mayor Bass and Gov. Newsom, call the response authoritarian and intended to intimidate immigrant communities. They highlight aggressive tactics—tear gas, unmarked cars, even night-time raids—and warn of civil rights violations.

Protests Spread Nationwide

L.A.’s unrest has reverberated across the country. Demonstrations have erupted in 19+ states, including New York, Chicago, Seattle, Austin, and Atlanta—many coordinating in solidarity with L.A. Nearly 1,800 protests are planned ahead of a June 14 military parade in Washington.

What to Watch Next

• Court showdown: California seeks injunction against military deployment—hearings are set.
• Policy implications: Will raids and troop deployments expand to other Democrat-led states? Texas and several others face imminent operations.
• Community impact: Moreover, schools, businesses, and workers, many fearful and disrupted, await clarity as enforcement continues.

You might also want to read: ICE Raids Shake Los Angeles With Downtown Curfew & Arrests