Delhi, 8 June (H.S.): President Donald Trump has ordered 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles amid ongoing immigration protests. The White House stated the deployment aims to address growing lawlessness in the city. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated readiness to mobilize active-duty troops if violence escalates. California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the move as inflammatory, suggesting it seeks spectacle rather than addressing law enforcement needs. Protests erupted after ICE conducted immigration raids, resulting in the arrest of at least 44 individuals. Clashes occurred as federal agents confronted demonstrators, deploying tear gas. Local leaders, including Mayor Karen Bass, condemned the raids as terror tactics.

Trump’s remarks on social media criticized California leaders’ capabilities, emphasizing federal intervention. The deployment marks a rare use of the National Guard in LA since the 1992 riots.

Protests erupted after reports of immigration raids near a local home improvement shop, coinciding with ICE operations in Los Angeles that resulted in 44 arrests for immigration violations. Demonstrators gathered outside a federal detention center, chanting demands for the release of detainees, while some displayed anti-ICE signs and graffiti. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass condemned the raids as fear-mongering in a diverse city. In response, Trump criticized Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsom, announcing the deployment of the National Guard, a rare measure since 1992. Concerns arose regarding Trump’s federalization of part of California’s National Guard under Title 10 authority, enabling him to bypass state control. Newsom stated local law enforcement resources are adequate, arguing the National Guard’s role may erode public trust amidst a sweeping immigration crackdown affecting both undocumented and documented residents.

—————

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar