LOS ANGELES, June 8 – Violent confrontations between protesters and law enforcement officials escalated in Los Angeles this week, prompting the deployment of National Guard troops as tensions over federal immigration enforcement reached a boiling point.
Police Use Tear Gas and Rubber Bullets to Disperse Crowds
On Tuesday afternoon, Los Angeles police fired tear gas and rubber bullets at protesters who had blocked traffic on the 101 Freeway after gathering near a federal building. Demonstrators, some throwing water bottles and rocks, refused to disperse despite warnings of arrest.
The unrest followed similar clashes on Monday in Paramount, a predominantly Latino community about 30 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, where federal agents used tear gas and stun grenades against protesters who responded by throwing projectiles.
Trump Orders “Liberation” of Los Angeles
President Donald Trump escalated the situation on Tuesday by declaring on his Truth Social platform that Los Angeles had been “invaded and occupied by illegal immigrants and criminals.” He directed Homeland Security Secretary Nom, Defense Secretary Hegseth, and Attorney General Bundy to take all necessary actions to “liberate Los Angeles from this immigrant invasion and end these riots.”
The White House announced Trump had signed a memorandum authorizing the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops, though only 300 were initially mobilized to Los Angeles area.
California Governor Condemns Federal Overreach
California Governor Gavin Newsom strongly objected to the deployment, calling it “a gross violation of state sovereignty” in a formal letter to Defense Secretary Hegseth. Newsom argued the President failed to follow proper protocol in issuing the order directly to National Guard commanders rather than coordinating through the governor’s office.
“We had no problems before Trump intervened,” Newsom stated on social media. “This action only escalates tensions while diverting resources from where they’re truly needed.”
Violent Confrontations Continue
By midday Tuesday, clashes intensified as National Guard troops fired tear gas at protesters outside federal buildings. A Xinhua News Agency reporter was struck by a rubber bullet while covering the demonstrations, with photographers documenting multiple injuries among protesters.
“We’re just working people trying to peacefully express our views,” one protester told reporters. “Why is the Trump government sending soldiers against us?”
Political Fallout Widens
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass joined Newsom in condemning the federal response, stating the National Guard deployment had “escalated chaos and spread fear through our communities.” Meanwhile, White House border czar Ken Homan warned state and local officials could face arrest for obstructing federal immigration enforcement.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials reported approximately 150 arrests in the Los Angeles area over the past two days.
International Condemnation
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum criticized the U.S. government’s treatment of immigrants, confirming 35 Mexican nationals had been detained in the raids. “Immigrants are not criminals,” Sheinbaum stated. “They are workers who contribute to the American economy.”
Protests Spread to New York
Similar demonstrations erupted in New York City on Monday, where about 150 protesters clashed with police outside an immigration court. Reports indicated at least 20 arrests as demonstrators blocked streets and confronted law enforcement officers.
The Los Angeles Police Department has placed the city on tactical alert, authorizing extended shifts for officers as authorities brace for further unrest.
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