This week, Los Angeles has found itself in the eye of a growing political storm. What began as protests against a series of aggressive immigration raids quickly evolved into a dramatic confrontation between state and federal authorities — with the streets of LA as the battleground.

If you've suddenly found videos of the conflict flooding your social media feed, but don't fully understand what's going on — or how you can help those impacted — keep reading.

What started the LA protests?

On June 6, a wave of early morning raids conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) swept across Los Angeles. ICE, the federal agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws and managing detention and deportation operations, targeted specific sectors of LA’s economy that rely heavily on immigrant labour — including day labourer pickup sites, construction supply stores, and small businesses in the Fashion District. According to officials, the raids were part of a broader federal initiative to crack down on undocumented immigrants with prior deportation orders or suspected ties to fraudulent employment records.

As a result of the raids, more than 40 people were detained in a matter of hours. The choice of locations targeted by ICE were widely viewed as strategic and symbolic: hitting vulnerable workers where they gather to make a living.

The protests began almost immediately. By the afternoon of June 6, demonstrators had gathered outside the downtown Federal Building, many holding signs that read “Abolish ICE” and “No human being is illegal.” These quickly grew into mass mobilisations, drawing together a broad coalition of immigrant rights activists, labour organisers, students, and local residents.

Over the weekend, protests expanded to other parts of the city — particularly in areas with deep immigrant roots. Others set up encampments near ICE field offices and federal courthouses, demanding the release of those taken into custody and an immediate halt to further enforcement actions.

An Australian journalist was shot as the police used force to disperse crowds

Though largely peaceful at first, tensions quickly escalated when federal agents and local police began attempting to disperse crowds. Eyewitness footage showed officers in tactical gear clashing with protesters, deploying tear gas, flash-bangs and rubber bullets. One particularly shocking moment that has circulated widely online showed an Australian journalist being shot in the leg by a rubber bullet while reporting live from outside the federal courthouse. The footage quickly went viral, and has fuelled international criticism of the U.S. response.

How has Donald Trump responded?

As protests escalated, the White House responded by sending in troops, without the state of California's approval. Nearly 4,000 National Guard soldiers and 700 Marines were deployed to Los Angeles under a controversial order from former President Donald Trump. Governor Gavin Newsom called the move unconstitutional and accused the federal government of using California as a political "test case."

The decision sparked outrage across the political spectrum. Critics pointed to the staggering $134 million cost of the 60-day deployment and raised alarm bells over the use of military force in domestic civilian matters.

Is there an end in sight?

As protests continue and legal battles intensify, many are asking whether this moment marks the end of a political flashpoint or the start of a deeper, more sustained movement.

As of June 12, parts of downtown LA are set to enter their second night under curfew, beginning at 8pm and ending at 6am. According to reports, around 700 marines have also been deployed to the area and are currently undergoing training, although it's not clear when they will be mobilised to help with protests.

At the core of protesters’ demands is the immediate release of those detained during the ICE raids, along with an end to the federal immigration sweeps that sparked the unrest. Legal advocates are also calling for the withdrawal of National Guard troops and federal agents from Los Angeles, arguing their presence has only escalated tensions.

In addition, there are growing calls for systemic change: the defunding or abolition of ICE, comprehensive immigration reform, and stronger legal protections for undocumented workers.

How can you help those impacted?

If you're watching this unfold from afar and wondering how to channel your outrage into action, there are several ways to support the communities most affected.

• Donate to local organisations: Groups like CHIRLA (Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights), CARECEN (Central American Resource Center), and the Immigrant Defenders Law Center are on the ground providing legal aid, housing support, and resources to families whose loved ones were detained. Donations helps cover bail, legal fees, and emergency needs.
• Stay informed: Sharing verified information and firsthand accounts from organisers and community members helps counter misinformation.
• Show up if you can: If you're in LA, mutual aid networks are organising supply drop-offs, protest support stations, and community healing spaces.

Feature image by Santi Fox via Unsplash.