Massive riots broke out in Los Angeles following the arrests of migrants during ICE immigration raids. Protesters set several cars on fire, blocked Highway 101, and clashed with police and the National Guard, which was deployed to the city by order of President Donald Trump.
The protests were sparked by ICE raids that resulted in the detention of more than 100 people. Hundreds of demonstrators gathered near the federal jail in downtown Los Angeles, chanting “Shame” and “Go home.” At one point, they blocked traffic on Highway 101, paralyzing it for several hours. Police used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the protesters, which only escalated the situation.
California Governor Gavin Newsom sharply condemned the federal government’s actions, calling them a “severe violation of state sovereignty.”
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass emphasized that “this is about a political agenda, not safety.” In response, Donald Trump criticized Newsom and Bass as “unable to handle the situation” and justified the deployment of the National Guard to protect ICE personnel.
By order of the Pentagon, the National Guard will remain in Los Angeles for at least 60 days, providing security for immigration centers and federal facilities.
