The decision to withdraw the Marines came after the Pentagon halved its deployment of about 4,000 National Guard troops in Los Angeles.
The Pentagon is continuing to wind down its troop deployment to Los Angeles, now withdrawing around 700 U.S. Marines who deployed to the California city last month in response to civil unrest.
President Donald Trump ordered the Marines to deploy to the city in June, along with 4,000 National Guard troops, following protests and riots against federal immigration enforcement operations.
In a press statement shared with The Epoch Times on July 22, Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the unrest had subsided enough that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth could order the Marines to withdraw.
“With stability returning to Los Angeles, the secretary has directed the redeployment of the 700 Marines whose presence sent a clear message: lawlessness will not be tolerated,” Parnell said.
“Their rapid response, unwavering discipline, and unmistakable presence were instrumental in restoring order and upholding the rule of law. We’re deeply grateful for their service, and for the strength and professionalism they brought to this mission.”
The Marines who deployed to Los Angeles last month are assigned to 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, based out of Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California.
Last week, the Pentagon announced that approximately half of the 4,000 National Guard troops it had deployed to Los Angeles were also pulling back from the mission.
About 2,000 National Guard troops continue to guard federal buildings and personnel in the city.
By Ryan Morgan
