Photo: RINGO CHIU / AFP / Getty Images
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced that U.S. Marines at Camp Pendleton are on high alert to support law enforcement in Los Angeles amid ongoing protests. These protests erupted on Saturday (June 7) in response to raids by federal immigration authorities. Hegseth shared on X that the Marines are ready to assist the two thousand National Guard soldiers already being deployed to the area.
The protests began after a series of pre-dawn raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) across Los Angeles County, which led to the detention of dozens of people, including those without prior criminal records. President Donald Trump authorized the deployment of National Guard troops under federal command to protect ICE operations and facilities nationwide. The memorandum allows for further use of regular Armed Forces "as necessary," at the discretion of the Secretary of Defense.
Governor Gavin Newsom has publicly opposed the deployment, expressing concerns about the erosion of public trust. Newsom criticized the decision on X, stating, "This is the wrong mission and will erode public trust. Never use violence. Speak out peacefully."
Law enforcement in riot gear has been seen using tear gas and smoke bombs to disperse protesters, who have been gathering near the sites of the raids. Some demonstrators have been throwing cement pieces and setting off fireworks. The situation remains tense, with potential for further escalation if violence continues.