Residents in Los Angeles may start noticing Marines in the vicinity as early as Thursday, with the protection operations in partnership with the National Guard set to commence on Friday.

Reportedly, President Donald Trump dispatched 700 Marines to Seal Beach, located south of Los Angeles County, for training in nonlethal weapons, which includes hand-to-hand combat and managing crowds.

Following the conclusion of their training at Seal Beach, the Marines have transitioned to “familiarization” exercises together with the National Guard in Los Angeles, according to a U.S. defense official speaking to Fox News.

U.S. National Guard are deployed around downtown Los Angeles, Sunday, June 8, 2025, following an immigration raid protest the night before. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer)

“[It’s] not about lethality. It’s about maintaining law and order on behalf of law enforcement agents who deserve to do their job without being attacked by mobs of people,” Hegseth said. “We are very proud that the National Guard and the Marines are on the streets defending the ICE agents, and they will continue.” 

Despite legal challenges by California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Hegseth said there is “plenty of precedent” for the U.S. supporting law enforcement officers.

Fox News Digital’s Michael Dorgan and Danielle Wallace contributed to this report.