ICE Raids in Los Angeles Ignite Protests and Federal Intervention

In early June 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a series of immigration raids across Los Angeles, targeting areas such as the Fashion District and Home Depot parking lots. These operations led to the detention of over 100 individuals, including those without criminal histories and some with legal status, causing widespread concern among immigrant communities.

The raids began on June 6, 2025, with ICE agents conducting operations in the Los Angeles Fashion District, a clothing wholesaler, and a Home Depot in Westlake. Agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) participated in these actions. HSI reported that 44 individuals were arrested for suspected immigration violations, and one person was arrested for obstruction. Among those detained was David Huerta, the California president of the Service Employees International Union, who was charged with felony conspiracy to impede an officer.

The ICE operations sparked mass protests throughout Los Angeles, with demonstrators opposing the federal immigration enforcement actions. The protests escalated into confrontations with law enforcement, resulting in incidents of vandalism and looting. In response, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass declared a local emergency and imposed an 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew in downtown Los Angeles.

President Donald Trump deployed the National Guard and 700 Marines to Los Angeles without the consent of California Governor Gavin Newsom or Mayor Bass, intensifying political tensions. Governor Newsom condemned the federal intervention as an illegal abuse of power, while President Trump justified the deployment as necessary to restore order.

The situation has garnered national attention, with similar protests emerging in other cities, and has become a focal point in the ongoing debate over immigration policies and federal authority.

Mayor Karen Bass stated, "As Mayor of a proud city of immigrants, who contribute to our city in so many ways, I am deeply angered by what has taken place. These tactics sow terror in our communities and disrupt basic principles of safety in our city."

Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the federal deployment, saying it was "purposefully inflammatory" and would "only escalate tensions."

The federal government's use of the National Guard without state consent is a rare and contentious action, last seen during the Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965. Legal experts have questioned the legality of this move, suggesting it may exceed presidential authority.

While Los Angeles has experienced civil unrest in the past, such as the 1992 riots, the current protests are largely peaceful and concentrated in a small area, differing significantly from previous events.

The deployment of federal troops without state consent has raised concerns about the balance of power between federal and state governments and the potential for escalating civil unrest.

The situation continues to evolve, with ongoing protests and political debates highlighting the complexities of immigration enforcement and federal authority in the United States.