Federal agents deploy tear gas to control LA protests against ICE

In the United States, specifically Los Angeles, significant protests erupted on June 8, 2025, in response to the deployment of National Guard troops by President Donald Trump amidst rising tensions over immigration enforcement. The protests were particularly intense against the actions of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the region, which many residents found alarming. Demonstrators blocked off major freeways, leading to a chaotic situation where self-driving cars were set on fire. Law enforcement responded forcefully with the use of tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash grenades to control the increasingly volatile crowd. Some protesters engaged in violent acts, throwing concrete, rocks, and other objects towards law enforcement officials, while others formed makeshift barriers to protect themselves during clashes. One notable figure amidst the protests was Finneas, the brother of pop star Billie Eilish, who publicly expressed his disdain towards ICE agents through social media. He criticized the government's actions and claimed to have experienced tear gas exposure while attending what he described as a "very peaceful protest". His social media posts gained traction, particularly among younger audiences, and highlighted the frustrations many had regarding the federal immigration policies. Videos circulated on social media showing law enforcement officers standing their ground against a determined crowd, which included activists warning each other of impending raids. The protests were part of an escalating series of anti-ICE demonstrations in Los Angeles, where residents actively voiced their opposition to the enforcement of federal immigration laws. The arrival of approximately 300 National Guard troops in the city was seen as both a provocation and an escalation of an already tense situation. As protests continued over the weekend, some individuals faced arrest amid ongoing efforts by ICE to conduct operations in the area. California Governor Gavin Newsom voiced his disapproval of the National Guard's deployment, arguing that it was unnecessary and devoid of a real purpose other than creating a spectacle. The situation reflects a continued struggle in the U.S. surrounding immigration policies and state versus federal enforcement, reigniting debates on civil rights and law enforcement practices. As tensions rise, multiple stakeholders are calling for peaceful discourse rather than further escalation of violent confrontations. Both the protesters and governmental bodies are at a crossroads in charting the future of immigration policy and community responses, with future protests anticipated unless significant changes are made to current practices.