Key Takeaways
• In June 2025, ICE arrested 118 undocumented immigrants in Los Angeles during large-scale raids targeting workplaces.
• Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum denied praising LA rioters, emphasizing migrant dignity and opposing violence.
• President Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops and threatened Marines amid protests and violence.
Federal Immigration Raids in Los Angeles: What Really Happened, Who Said What, and What It Means for Immigrants
Federal immigration raids in Los Angeles have sparked a wave of protests, political arguments, and confusion about what leaders on both sides of the border are saying. As the United States 🇺🇸 government, under President Trump, ramps up enforcement against undocumented immigrants, many people want to know: What is the real story behind the LA riots? Did the Mexican President really call the rioters “heroes”? And what do these events mean for immigrants, families, and communities in Los Angeles and beyond?
This article breaks down the facts, explains the policies, and looks at the impact on everyone involved. We’ll also clear up rumors and provide practical guidance for those affected by these changes.
What Happened in Los Angeles: The Basics
In early June 2025, Los Angeles became the center of national attention after a series of large-scale Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. These raids focused on workplaces, especially in the city’s fashion district, and targeted undocumented immigrants. According to ICE, they arrested an average of 2,000 undocumented immigrants per day nationwide that week, with 118 arrests in the LA area alone.
The raids led to widespread protests. Some demonstrations were peaceful, while others turned violent. Protesters, including many waving Mexican flags, gathered outside federal buildings and detention centers. Federal agents used tear gas and flash-bang grenades to disperse crowds. At least 27 people were arrested during these protests for alleged crimes, including throwing a Molotov cocktail.
President Trump responded by ordering 2,000 National Guard troops into Los Angeles. He warned that if violence continued, he would consider sending in active-duty Marines. The situation quickly became tense, with both sides blaming each other for the chaos.
Did the Mexican President Praise LA Rioters as ‘Heroes’?
Despite rumors and some misleading headlines, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum did NOT praise the LA rioters as ‘heroes.’ Instead, her public statements have focused on defending the dignity and rights of Mexican migrants living in the United States 🇺🇸. Sheinbaum said:
“Mexicans living in the United States are good men and women, honest people who went to the United States to seek a better life for themselves and to support their families. They are not criminals! They are good men and women!”
Sheinbaum has not supported or encouraged violence. She has spoken out against policies that hurt migrants, but she has not called for or praised illegal actions. Her main concern has been the safety and well-being of Mexican citizens in the United States 🇺🇸.
Why Did the Raids Happen? New Federal Policies Explained
The recent ICE raids are part of a larger shift in U.S. immigration policy under President Trump. In January 2025, several new executive orders were signed:
- EO 14159: This order bans most asylum requests at the U.S.-Mexico border for anyone crossing without proper documents, even unaccompanied children.
- EO 14165: This order suspends the CBP One app, which was the main way for people to schedule legal asylum appointments. It also cancels 30,000 scheduled appointments.
- ‘Remain in Mexico’ Policy Restarted: Non-Mexican asylum seekers must now wait in Mexico 🇲🇽 for their U.S. immigration hearings. Mexico 🇲🇽 has agreed to receive these people “in a humanitarian manner.”
- Increased Deportations: The government has expanded “expedited removal,” which means more people can be deported quickly, without a court hearing, if they have been in the United States 🇺🇸 for less than two years.
These changes have made it much harder for people to seek asylum or stay in the United States 🇺🇸 if they are undocumented. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, these policies have led to a sharp increase in detentions and deportations, as well as fear and confusion in immigrant communities.
How Did Local and State Leaders Respond?
The federal government’s actions have not gone unchallenged. Local and state officials in California have strongly opposed the raids and the use of military force.
- LA Mayor Karen Bass condemned the ICE raids, saying they “sow terror in our communities and disrupt basic principles of safety in our city.” She promised to support immigrant rights organizations and help affected families.
- California Governor Gavin Newsom called the federal response “deranged behavior” and criticized the decision to send in the National Guard and threaten the use of Marines.
- The ACLU of Southern California also condemned the raids, while the LA County Sheriff’s Department made it clear that it does not participate in ICE actions.
These leaders argue that the raids and heavy-handed tactics make communities less safe, not more. They say that immigrants are afraid to report crimes or seek help, which can lead to more problems for everyone.
What Happens During an ICE Raid and Protest?
For many people, the process of an ICE raid and the protests that follow can be confusing and frightening. Here’s a step-by-step look at what typically happens:
- ICE agents, often armed and wearing masks, conduct coordinated raids at workplaces or in neighborhoods.
- People are detained on the spot and taken to federal detention centers.
- Protests break out, sometimes turning violent if crowds clash with law enforcement or federal agents.
- The National Guard or even Marines may be deployed to restore order and support federal operations.
- Local officials, advocacy groups, and lawyers respond, offering help to those affected and speaking out against the raids.
If you or someone you know is affected by an ICE raid, it’s important to know your rights. You can find official information and resources at the ICE Public Information Office.
The Human Impact: What This Means for Immigrants and Families
The new policies and aggressive enforcement have real consequences for people living in Los Angeles and across the country. Here are some of the main effects:
- Increased risk of detention and deportation: More people are being picked up by ICE, often with little warning.
- Loss of legal pathways to asylum: With the CBP One app suspended and asylum rules tightened, it’s much harder for people to seek protection in the United States 🇺🇸.
- Fear and anxiety in immigrant communities: Many families are afraid to go to work, school, or even leave their homes.
- Disruption of daily life: Protests, police actions, and military deployments have made some neighborhoods feel unsafe and unstable.
For many, the fear is not just about being deported, but about being separated from loved ones, losing jobs, or facing violence in their home countries.
The Political and Economic Side: US-Mexico Relations
The situation has also put a strain on relations between the United States 🇺🇸 and Mexico 🇲🇽. President Sheinbaum has criticized U.S. proposals to impose a 5% tax on remittances (money sent home by migrants) and a $1,000 asylum application fee. She argues that these measures hurt both economies and go against the idea of economic freedom.
Mexico 🇲🇽 has agreed to accept non-Mexican asylum seekers under the restarted “Remain in Mexico” policy, but officials say they are doing so “in a humanitarian manner.” Still, the relationship between the two countries is tense, with both sides watching closely to see what happens next.
Stakeholders: Who’s Involved and What Are Their Positions?
Here’s a quick look at the main players in this situation and where they stand:
- Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum: Defends migrants, condemns criminalization, opposes U.S. economic measures that target migrants.
- President Trump: Orders National Guard, threatens to send in Marines, promises continued ICE operations.
- ICE Leadership: Defends raids as targeting criminals, says violent protesters will be prosecuted.
- LA Mayor Karen Bass: Condemns raids, supports immigrant communities, opposes federal tactics.
- California Governor Gavin Newsom: Criticizes federal militarization, calls response “deranged.”
- Protesters and Activists: Oppose raids, some protests are peaceful, others turn violent.
- ACLU and LA County Sheriff’s Department: ACLU condemns raids; Sheriff’s Department does not participate in ICE actions.
The Bigger Picture: Historical Context
Immigration enforcement in Los Angeles has always been a hot topic. California’s “sanctuary” policies often clash with federal priorities. The Trump administration’s 2025 executive orders are even stricter than earlier policies, such as the original “Remain in Mexico” and family separation rules.
California lawmakers are now working on new protections for immigrants, including laws that limit police cooperation with ICE in places like schools and shelters.
What’s Next? The Future Outlook
Looking ahead, several things are likely:
- Continued ICE operations: The Trump administration has made it clear that enforcement will continue.
- Possible escalation: If protests grow or become more violent, there could be more military involvement.
- Legal challenges: State and local governments, as well as advocacy groups, are expected to challenge the new policies in court.
- More tension between the United States 🇺🇸 and Mexico 🇲🇽: If new taxes or fees are imposed, or if more people are sent back to Mexico 🇲🇽, relations could get even worse.
Practical Guidance for Immigrants and Families
If you are worried about ICE raids or changes in immigration policy, here are some steps you can take:
- Know your rights: You do not have to open your door to ICE agents unless they have a signed warrant. You have the right to remain silent and to speak to a lawyer.
- Stay informed: Follow updates from trusted sources, such as the Mexican Consulate in Los Angeles or local immigrant rights organizations.
- Have a plan: Make sure your family knows what to do if someone is detained. Keep important documents in a safe place.
- Seek help: Many organizations offer legal aid and support for immigrants. The ACLU of Southern California and the LA Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs are good places to start.
Clearing Up the Rumors: What Leaders Really Said
It’s important to rely on facts, not rumors. Despite some headlines, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum did NOT call LA rioters “heroes.” Her focus has been on defending the rights and dignity of migrants, not on supporting violence or illegal actions.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, Sheinbaum’s statements have centered on the positive contributions of Mexican migrants and the need for fair treatment, not on glorifying protests or riots.
Where to Find Official Information
If you need more information about immigration enforcement, your rights, or how to get help, check out these official resources:
- ICE Public Information Office
- Mexican Consulate in Los Angeles
- LA Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs
- ACLU of Southern California
For official forms, such as asylum applications, visit the USCIS Forms page.
Final Thoughts: Staying Safe and Informed
The situation in Los Angeles is serious and changing quickly. Federal immigration raids, new policies, and protests have created fear and uncertainty for many people. But it’s important to remember that not everything you hear is true. Leaders on both sides are making strong statements, but not all of them are calling for violence or breaking the law.
If you are affected by these changes, stay calm, know your rights, and reach out for help if you need it. The most important thing is to stay informed and take steps to protect yourself and your family.
By understanding the facts and knowing where to turn for support, you can face these challenges with more confidence and hope for a better future.
Learn Today
ICE → U.S. government agency enforcing immigration laws, including detentions and deportations of undocumented immigrants.
National Guard → State-based military reserve force called to support federal or state law enforcement during emergencies.
Asylum → Protection granted by a country to people fleeing persecution in their homeland, requiring legal approval.
Executive Order → A directive issued by the president to manage government operations or policies without Congress approval.
Expedited Removal → A legal process allowing quick deportation of certain undocumented immigrants without a court hearing.
This Article in a Nutshell
In June 2025, ICE raids in Los Angeles sparked protests and violence, prompting National Guard deployment. Despite rumors, Mexico’s president defended migrants without supporting violence. New federal policies tightened asylum rules, increasing deportations and fear among immigrant communities across California and the U.S.
— By VisaVerge.com
