Nationwide Protests Against ICE Continue with Tear Gas, Flags, and Legal Disputes Unfolding

Tear gas was deployed against protesters in Las Vegas while at least eight individuals were arrested in Seattle as authorities declared a protest illegal. The New York police detained 10 people during another wave of demonstrations. These actions were part of nationwide protests responding to U.S. immigration policies, as ICE agents continued to conduct raids on suspected undocumented migrants. Los Angeles has witnessed considerable unrest, particularly following ICE raids last Friday that led to curfews and more than 200 arrests this week.

This tension culminated in protests across the country, with major rallies anticipated on Saturday to coincide with President Donald Trump’s military parade. In Las Vegas, hundreds of protesters rallied, displaying flags from Mexico and various Central and South American nations, as well as the United States. A video captured a confrontational scene where police instructed demonstrators to move back before using tear gas. The protest was declared an “unlawful assembly” by local authorities.

In Spokane, Washington, a state of emergency was declared, along with an overnight curfew, as police responded to protests outside an ICE field office. At least 30 individuals were arrested, with reports of police using tear gas amid escalating tensions. California faced its own challenges, where clashes occurred during ICE raids. In Boyle Heights, two vehicles surrounded a passenger car in what authorities deemed a targeted arrest.

The situation at Downey Memorial Christian Church saw armed men confront congregants, sparking further unrest. As protests continued, acting ICE Director Todd Lyons characterized the situation in Los Angeles as “pure anarchy,” defending federal actions aimed at deporting suspected criminals. Meanwhile, the deployment of troops in California to assist with law enforcement efforts stirred legal debates regarding the boundaries of military involvement in civilian matters. In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott activated the National Guard to maintain peace during demonstrations, although city leaders expressed concerns over the lack of communication regarding this decision.

Despite the potential for unrest, protests in San Antonio remained peaceful.