The U.S. Department of Defense (Pentagon) announced the deployment of 700 U.S. Marines to Los Angeles amid escalating protests against immigration deportations, which have recently led to clashes with security forces.

The U.S. Northern Command said in a statement that it had mobilized “around 700 Marines” to support National Guard units already deployed in the city by order of President Donald Trump, in response to the widespread protests against his immigration crackdown.

According to the statement, the ongoing operation in Los Angeles—dubbed Task Force 51—includes approximately 2,100 National Guard members and 700 active-duty Marines.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the decision to deploy the Marines was made to restore order and protect federal employees and facilities. President Donald Trump asserted that he is not seeking a “civil war,” but warned that protesters mistreating National Guard troops would face consequences.

On the other hand, California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, strongly condemned the decision to deploy Marines in Los Angeles.