Amid escalating tensions over the Trump Administration’s immigration policies, protests in Los Angeles led to a standoff between law enforcement and demonstrators. Following coordinated federal immigration raids in the city, protesters blocked the 101 freeway and at least 44 individuals were administratively arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). President Donald Trump responded by deploying over 2,000 National Guardsmen to the city.

California Governor Gavin Newsom announced plans to file a lawsuit against the president, underscoring the state’s opposition to the raids. Trump’s rhetoric, labeling Los Angeles as “invaded and occupied by illegal aliens and criminals,” further fueled the protests. Media reports indicated that ICE had been directed to arrest a minimum of 3,000 individuals daily.

The demonstrations turned violent over the weekend, with reports of looting, vandalism, and clashes between protesters and law enforcement. While the Los Angeles Police Department initially described the protests as peaceful, the situation escalated, prompting the use of tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse crowds. LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell emphasized that the police did not engage in immigration enforcement activities, affirming federal authorities’ right to conduct the raids.

Images from the protests capture key moments, reflecting the intensity and complexity of the situation on the ground in Los Angeles.