U.S. Withdraws 2,000 National Guard Troops from Los Angeles Amid Easing Unrest

Last Updated Jul - 16 - 2025, 05:45 PM | Source : Fela News

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth orders partial withdrawal of National Guard from Los Angeles as protests subside. 2,000 troops remain to protect federal assets.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed that 2,000 of the 4,000 National Guard troops stationed in Los Angeles be withdrawn, following a period of protests last month, according to the Pentagon on Tuesday. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said the reduction was a result of the mission's success.

“Thanks to our troops who answered the call, the unrest in Los Angeles is declining,” Parnell stated. “As a result, the Secretary has approved the release of 2,000 California National Guard members from the federal protection mission.”

The troops were initially deployed in June by former President Donald Trump to protect federal property and ICE personnel amid protests sparked by immigration raids, despite opposition from California Governor Gavin Newsom. Alongside the National Guard, around 700 Marines were also sent.

Although Trump’s move faced legal opposition, a U.S. appeals court allowed him to maintain control over California’s National Guard. The deployment, however, triggered widespread controversy and intensified political friction in Los Angeles, the nation’s second-largest city. The Pentagon has stood by the decision, asserting that securing ICE personnel is vital to allowing them to carry out their duties.

Following the partial troop withdrawal, approximately 2,000 National Guard members and 700 Marines will still remain in the city.