The Pentagon has ordered 700 U.S. Marines to depart Los Angeles following weeks of heightened tensions surrounding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities.
According to Fox News, the withdrawal comes more than a month after their controversial deployment to the city against local leaders' wishes. The Marines had been stationed primarily to defend federal buildings during anti-ICE demonstrations that began in early June.
The Trump administration's decision to deploy Marines and federalize approximately 4,000 National Guard soldiers sparked immediate legal challenges from California officials. Governor Gavin Newsom filed a lawsuit arguing the deployment violated the Posse Comitatus Act, which restricts military involvement in domestic law enforcement. The case saw initial success when a federal judge ruled the Guard deployment illegal, though an appeals court later reversed that decision.
Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell praised the Marines' "unwavering discipline" during their deployment. He emphasized that their presence was crucial in maintaining order and protecting federal property during the unrest.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass celebrated the troops' departure as a victory for the city. She highlighted how the deployment represented an "unnecessary, unprecedented, and unconstitutional assault" on Los Angeles.
The Marines' withdrawal follows last week's order for half of the National Guard troops to leave the city. This phased departure suggests federal authorities believe the situation has stabilized sufficiently to reduce military presence.
The deployment's legality remains contested in federal court. Governor Newsom's lawsuit specifically challenges the president's authority to federalize state troops against state leadership's wishes.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth retained discretion over the deployment's duration, initially set for 60 days. Court documents reveal the administration maintained flexibility to adjust troop presence based on evolving conditions.
The federal appeals court is scheduled to hear arguments next month regarding potential violations of the Posse Comitatus Act. This case could set important precedents for future domestic military deployments.
The Marines' presence was strictly limited to defending federal buildings, including ICE facilities in downtown Los Angeles. This narrow scope aimed to avoid direct involvement in law enforcement activities.
Business leaders and veterans' families joined Mayor Bass in opposing the military presence. They argued the deployment damaged community relations and exceeded necessary security measures.
Community organizations continue to monitor ICE activities while advocating for peaceful protest methods. Local law enforcement has resumed primary responsibility for maintaining order around federal facilities.
The Pentagon's withdrawal order reflects growing confidence in local authorities' ability to maintain stability. Chief Pentagon Spokesman Parnell emphasized that the Marines' mission successfully demonstrated federal resolve against lawlessness.
The remaining National Guard troops' status remains under review, with their deployment potentially ending before the scheduled 60-day period. Defense officials maintain they can rapidly respond if conditions deteriorate.
Local law enforcement agencies have developed new protocols for protecting federal facilities without military support. These measures aim to balance security needs with community concerns about excessive force.
