In response to escalating protests sparked by federal immigration raids, President Donald Trump has authorized the deployment of around 4,700 troops—including 4,000 National Guard members and 700 Marines—to Los Angeles. This number exceeds the combined tally of U.S. forces in Iraq (approximately 2,500) and Syria (around 2,000).

The decision comes as mass demonstrations sweep across L.A., opposing aggressive ICE actions aimed at undocumented communities. Although federal troops are not permitted to arrest civilians, they are authorized to detain individuals and protect federal personnel until local authorities intervene. Some protests have turned violent, prompting the city to impose an 8 p.m. curfew downtown and resulting in numerous arrests for vandalism and clashes with police.

California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass have condemned the military deployment as an "abuse of power," arguing the president bypassed state authority and could be setting a dangerous precedent. Newsom’s administration has filed an emergency lawsuit challenging the legality of the move .

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the operation, stating the 60-day mission will cost around $134 million and remains within legal bounds ﹘ while Trump frames it as essential for restoring "law and order" and preventing urban unrest.