Pentagon Deploys 2,700 Troops as ICE Raids Trigger LA Protests

The Pentagon deployed 2,700 active-duty troops to Los Angeles as ICE enforcement operations targeting undocumented immigrants triggered large First Amendment protests across the city. Defense Secretary Hegseth authorized the deployment under emergency powers, citing the need to protect federal law enforcement operations. Protesters and civil liberties lawyers argued the military presence was used to suppress constitutionally protected speech and assembly.