CISG Media USA, Downtown St. Petersburg, FL (2025)

07/06/2025

Finding the Unsung Heroes Among Us

Scott Davis - CISG Media USA
Washington DC
July 5, 2025

In a world captivated by influencers, celebrities, and power brokers who crave the spotlight, it’s easy to overlook the true heroes in our midst—those who quietly transform lives without seeking applause.

These unsung heroes, found in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and communities, embody hope through their selfless dedication and resilience.

Unlike those who leverage wealth and vanity to stay in the limelight, these individuals work tirelessly for the greater good, often unnoticed. Let’s shift our gaze from the self-promoters and start recognizing the everyday champions who make our world better, one small act at a time.

We’re bombarded daily with stories of billionaires staging grandiose acts of philanthropy for headlines or politicians crafting soundbites to fuel their image.

These figures often dominate our attention, their influence amplified by carefully curated personas.

But real heroism doesn’t need a press release.

It’s in the teacher who stays late to help a struggling student, the neighbor who organizes food drives, or the nurse who comforts a patient through a long night.

These are the people who weave hope into our communities, not for clout, but because they believe in doing what’s right. By celebrating them, we challenge the culture of vanity and inspire others to act with quiet courage.

Take, for example, someone like Sarah Martinez, a community organizer in a small Michigan town.

In 2023, when her neighborhood faced a water crisis due to aging infrastructure, Sarah didn’t wait for national attention. She rallied residents, coordinated with local officials, and secured grants to replace contaminated pipes.

Her efforts ensured clean water for hundreds of families, yet she never sought recognition. Sarah’s work was apolitical—she didn’t care about partisan divides, only about her neighbors’ safety.

Her resilience contrasts sharply with the tech moguls who might fund splashy initiatives for tax breaks or public adoration, not pure impact.

Or consider Jamal Carter, a high school janitor in Atlanta who, in 2024, started an after-school mentorship program for at-risk teens.

Using his own savings, Jamal provided snacks, supplies, and a safe space for kids to learn life skills and avoid gang violence. His program has kept dozens of students on track to graduate, yet he’s never been featured on a talk show. Jamal’s dedication—free of ego or agenda—stands in stark relief to influencers who chase viral fame while offering little substance to their communities.

Historically, figures like Irena Sendler, who saved thousands of Jewish children during World War II, or Norman Borlaug, whose agricultural innovations fed billions, showed us what quiet heroism looks like.

They acted without fanfare, driven by a balanced commitment to humanity, not ideology.

Their modern counterparts, like Sarah and Jamal, carry that same spirit.

They don’t tilt left or right; they simply see a need and meet it, undeterred by obstacles or lack of recognition.

So, how do we find these heroes in our own lives?

Look closer.

Notice the librarian who spends her weekends teaching immigrants to read, asking nothing in return.

See the firefighter who checks on elderly residents during heatwaves, not because it’s his job, but because it’s his calling.

These are the people who deserve our admiration—not the self-aggrandizing elites who dominate headlines.

Start a conversation with a coworker who volunteers quietly, or thank the local shop owner who donates to kids’ sports teams.

Small gestures of recognition can amplify their impact and inspire others.

By seeking out and uplifting these unsung heroes, we reclaim hope from a culture obsessed with fame.

We remind ourselves that real change doesn’t require a platform or a fortune—just a heart willing to serve.

Let’s stop glorifying those who use their power to stay in the spotlight and instead shine a light on the everyday champions among us.

They are the ones who show us what humanity can achieve when vanity takes a backseat to purpose.

Go find them. Celebrate them. And maybe, in doing so, become one yourself.

07/06/2025

This from our Chairman, Scott Davis on the Flooding in Texas.

My heart is heavy with grief for Texas, my beloved home state, as we mourn the lives lost to the catastrophic flash floods that tore through Kerr County and beyond this past weekend.

The news of at least 43 lives lost, including 15 children, and the frantic search for dozens of girls still missing from Camp Mystic along the Guadalupe River, is a wound that cuts deep.

Among them, young souls like Renee Smajjstrla, Janie Hunt, Sarah Marsh, and Lila Bonner, whose families are now enveloped in unimaginable sorrow.

This tragedy stirs memories of my own brush with nature’s fury in 1983, when I was just a kid heading to summer camp in Fischer, Texas, nestled between San Marcos and Wimberley.

As we approached San Marcos, Old Ranch Road 12 had transformed into a raging river, forcing us to take shelter at the Holiday Inn until the waters receded. When we finally reached camp along the Blanco River, our campsite was gone—swept away by the flood’s wrath.

They moved us to higher ground across the river, but I’ll never forget the raw power of that moment.

Reading about the youngsters clinging to trees this weekend, swept down the Guadalupe River by a 26-foot surge in just 45 minutes, I can’t help but shudder.

These poor souls endured a wet hell of debris, wildlife, and fire ants, holding on for dear life until rescue came. One young woman’s dramatic rescue after being carried 12 miles downriver, clinging to branches, is a testament to both human resilience and the relentless force of nature.

My heart aches for those who didn’t make it, for the families waiting for answers, and for the communities now picking up the pieces.

Texas is no stranger to floods—our Hill Country rivers, like the Guadalupe and Blanco, are as beautiful as they are dangerous.

The National Weather Service issued warnings, but no one could predict the sheer volume of rain—up to 10 inches in hours—that turned dry soils into torrents.

Yet, even in our preparedness, with Texas’ renowned emergency response mobilizing 850 rescues, 14 helicopters, and countless ground crews, the speed and scale of this disaster overwhelmed us all.

Governor Greg Abbott’s declaration of a state of emergency and the tireless efforts of local, state, and federal responders remind us of our strength, but also of our vulnerability.

To those who lost loved ones, to the parents still praying for their daughters, and to every Texan hurting: you are not alone.

We will grieve together, rebuild together, and hold fast to the spirit that makes Texas home.

Let’s honor the lost by supporting one another and preparing for the challenges ahead, as the National Weather Service warns of more rain to come.

Please, stay safe, seek higher ground, and sign up for alerts at WARN Central Texas.

With all my love and prayers for our Great State of Texas.

06/18/2025

China and Russia’s Stance on Iran: Public Positions, Private
Calculations, and the Role of Strategic Resources

Scott Davis - CISG Media USA
18 June 2025
Washington DC

The geopolitical relationship between China, Russia, and Iran has grown increasingly significant in recent years, shaped by shared interests, mutual distrust of Western influence, and strategic resource dependencies.

As tensions between Iran and the United States persist, particularly over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and regional activities, the positions of China and Russia—both publicly and privately—carry substantial weight.

Let's explore where China and Russia stand on Iran, the influence of oil, natural gas, and rare earth minerals on their policies, and the likelihood of their involvement in a potential U.S.-Iran conflict.

Public Stance: Solidarity Against Western Pressure

Publicly, both China and Russia project strong support for Iran, emphasizing sovereignty, opposition to Western sanctions, and the need for diplomatic solutions to global disputes. This alignment is rooted in their broader geopolitical strategy to counterbalance U.S. dominance and foster a multipolar world order.

China’s Public Position: China consistently advocates for Iran’s right to develop its economy and pursue nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. In April 2025, China’s Foreign Ministry supported a
China-Russia-Iran trilateral meeting on the Iranian nuclear issue, stressing that political and diplomatic means are the only viable path forward.

Beijing has also called for lifting sanctions on Iran, framing them as unjust and counterproductive. This stance aligns with China’s broader narrative of opposing unilateral Western actions and promoting global economic cooperation.

Russia’s Public Position: Russia mirrors China’s rhetoric, emphasizing Iran’s sovereignty and criticizing U.S. sanctions. In March 2025, Russia joined China in a joint statement supporting Iran’s nuclear program and demanding the removal of sanctions.

Moscow positions itself as a mediator in regional conflicts, as seen in President Vladimir Putin’s offer to facilitate dialogue between Iran and Israel during the ongoing Israel-Iran tensions in June 2025. Russia’s public support also extends to military and economic cooperation, with Iran supplying munitions to Russia for its war in Ukraine.

This public solidarity is amplified through platforms like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and BRICS, where Iran, China, and Russia collaborate to challenge Western-led institutions. Their rhetoric often frames Iran as a victim of U.S. aggression, reinforcing their narrative of resisting a uni-polar world.
Private Calculations: Pragmatism and Strategic Interests

Privately, the dynamics are more complex, driven by pragmatic considerations, economic dependencies, and cautious risk assessments. While China and Russia value Iran as a strategic partner, their commitment is tempered by domestic priorities and the potential costs of deeper entanglement.

China’s Private Stance: China’s relationship with Iran is heavily influenced by economic and energy interests. Iran supplies over 90% of its crude oil exports to China, making it a critical energy partner, especially as global oil markets remain volatile. However, China’s economy is under strain, and Beijing is wary of actions that could provoke Western sanctions or disrupt global trade.

Privately, Chinese leaders likely view Iran as a useful but risky partner. For instance, China has eased payment issues with Russia caused by Western sanctions, suggesting a willingness to deepen ties with sanctioned states like Iran, but only to the extent that it does not jeopardize broader economic stability.

China’s dominance in rare earth minerals also shapes its calculations. While Iran is not a major supplier, China’s control over 90% of global rare earth processing gives it leverage in global trade negotiations, including with the U.S. Beijing has used export restrictions on rare earths as a bargaining chip, as seen in recent U.S.-China trade talks, but it has no direct incentive to tie Iran’s interests to its rare earth strategy.

Instead, China likely sees Iran as a geopolitical buffer against U.S. influence in the Middle East, but one that requires careful management to avoid escalation.

Russia’s Private Stance: Russia’s private stance is shaped by its military and economic needs, particularly in the context of its ongoing war in Ukraine. Iran’s supply of drones and munitions has been vital, and Russia has deepened its defense pact with Iran, including joint development of mineral deposits. However, Russia’s oil and gas revenues are shrinking due to sanctions and global market shifts, making it eager to capitalize on any reduction in Iranian oil exports, which could drive up global prices and benefit Russian producers.

Privately, Russia is likely skeptical of China’s growing influence in Iran and the broader Middle East. A secret document reported by The New York Times in June 2025 revealed Russian concerns about Chinese espionage as their partnership deepens, suggesting underlying tensions. Russia may also be cautious about over-committing to Iran, given its focus on Ukraine and the risk of antagonizing other regional players like Israel, with which it maintains ties.

The Role of Oil, Natural Gas, and Rare Earth Minerals

Strategic resources are central to China and Russia’s relationships with Iran, but their influence varies:

Oil and Natural Gas: Iran’s oil and gas reserves are critical for China, which relies heavily on imported energy to fuel its economy. Nearly all of Iran’s crude oil exports go to China, and any disruption—such as Israeli strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure—could force China to seek costlier alternatives, potentially from Russia. For Russia, Iran’s oil exports are less directly relevant, but a conflict that reduces Iranian supply could boost global oil prices, benefiting Russia’s economy.

However, Russia’s own sanctions-related constraints limit its ability to fully capitalize on such a scenario. Natural gas is a growing factor, particularly as Middle East tensions accelerate Russia-China gas negotiations.

A Russian adviser noted in June 2025 that a decision on a major gas deal is likely by year-end, driven by regional instability. Iran’s gas fields, bordering Qatar’s, remain underdeveloped due to sanctions and lack of Western investment, limiting their immediate strategic value but underscoring Iran’s long-term potential as an energy partner.

Rare Earth Minerals: Rare earths are a minor factor in China and Russia’s direct relations with Iran but a major element in their broader geopolitical strategies.

China’s near-monopoly on rare earth processing gives it significant leverage over the U.S. and its allies, who rely on these minerals for advanced weaponry, electric vehicles, and renewable energy technologies.

Iran is not a significant rare earth supplier, but its alignment with China strengthens Beijing’s position in global resource negotiations. For example, U.S.-China trade talks in June 2025 focused heavily on rare earth access, with Trump claiming a deal to secure supplies, though Beijing has not fully committed to easing export restrictions. Russia, meanwhile, is exploring rare earth cooperation with North Korea, which could reduce its reliance on China and indirectly affect its stance on Iran. However, rare earths are less critical to Russia’s immediate interests compared to oil and gas.

Likelihood of Involvement in a U.S.-Iran Conflict

The prospect of China and Russia becoming directly involved in a U.S.-Iran conflict depends on the conflict’s scope, their strategic priorities, and the risks of escalation. Several factors shape their potential responses:

China’s Calculus: China is highly unlikely to engage militarily in a U.S.-Iran conflict due to its focus on economic stability and avoidance of direct confrontation with the U.S. Posts on X reflect skepticism about China risking an “apocalyptic war” over Iran, noting that Beijing could source oil from Russia or other suppliers.

However, China might provide indirect support, such as increased oil purchases or diplomatic backing, to sustain Iran’s economy and counter U.S. influence.

For instance, China’s support for Iran’s nuclear program and sanctions relief suggests a willingness to bolster Tehran politically. If the conflict disrupts global oil markets or threatens China’s rare earth dominance, Beijing could escalate economic measures, such as tightening rare earth exports to the U.S., as it did in April 2025.

The likelihood of China’s involvement is low (10-20%) unless the conflict directly threatens its energy security or regional influence.

Russia’s Calculus: Russia’s military pact with Iran and reliance on Iranian munitions increase the chances of its involvement compared to China. However, Russia’s focus on Ukraine and strained resources limit its capacity for direct military engagement.

A protracted Israel-Iran conflict could benefit Russia economically by driving up oil prices, reducing its incentive to intervene. Russia might provide diplomatic support, intelligence sharing, or limited military aid to Iran, as suggested by its mediator role and arms cooperation. The likelihood of Russia’s direct involvement is moderate (20-30%), but it would likely avoid full-scale military commitment to preserve its strategic focus on Ukraine and relations with other Middle Eastern actors.

Joint Considerations: Both China and Russia benefit from Iran as a counterweight to U.S. influence, but their economic and military constraints make direct involvement risky. Posts on X highlight the view that neither country has a strong incentive to back Iran militarily, given their domestic challenges and alternative resource options. A coordinated response, such as increased energy purchases or diplomatic pressure through the UN, is more likely than military action.

The Israel-Iran conflict’s escalation in June 2025, with Russia advising citizens to leave both countries, underscores their preference for de-escalation over entanglement.
China and Russia’s public support for Iran is robust, rooted in a shared vision of countering U.S. hegemony and promoting a multi-polar world. Privately, their commitment is more pragmatic, driven by energy needs, geopolitical leverage, and caution about over-extension.

Oil and natural gas are central to China’s interest in Iran, while Russia sees both opportunity and competition in Iran’s energy sector. Rare earth minerals, while critical in global trade dynamics, play a secondary role in their direct relations with Iran.
The chances of China or Russia becoming directly involved in a

U.S.-Iran conflict are low to moderate, with China prioritizing economic stability and Russia balancing its Ukraine focus with Middle East ambitions. Indirect support—through energy purchases, diplomacy, or limited aid—is more likely than military engagement.

As global tensions rise, the China-Russia-Iran axis will continue to shape the geopolitical landscape, but their actions will reflect calculated self-interest rather than unwavering loyalty.

06/12/2025

The Americas: A Timeless Land of Opportunity

Scott Davis - June 12, 2025
CISG Media USA - Washington DC

For centuries, the Americas have stood as a beacon of hope, a land where dreams are forged into reality through grit, determination, and the promise of opportunity. From the earliest migrations across the Bering Strait to the waves of explorers, pilgrims, and immigrants who followed, the Americas have drawn those seeking a better life.

The United States, in particular, has become the epitome of this promise—a nation founded on the audacious idea that individuals, free from oppressive rule, could carve their own paths to prosperity.

Yet, this opportunity comes with a responsibility to respect the laws and systems that sustain it, both for citizens and guests alike. As we reflect on the enduring allure of the Americas, we must also address the balance between welcoming newcomers and upholding the rule of law that ensures this land remains a place of opportunity for all.

Long before European explorers set foot on these shores, the Americas were a destination for those seeking renewal.

Archaeological evidence suggests that the first peoples crossed into the New World over 15,000 years ago, pursuing abundant game and fertile lands. Later, indigenous civilizations like the Maya, Inca, and Iroquois built sophisticated societies, innovating in agriculture, governance, and trade. The Americas were already a land of possibility, where human ingenuity thrived.
The arrival of European settlers in the 15th and 16th centuries marked a new chapter.

Despite the hardships of colonization—disease, conflict, and displacement—newcomers found a continent brimming with resources and space to build anew. The Pilgrims, fleeing religious persecution, established communities grounded in self-governance.

By the 18th century, the American colonies were a melting pot of cultures, drawing adventurers, merchants, and families seeking economic and social mobility.

The United States’ birth as an independent nation in 1776 solidified its identity as a land of opportunity.

Breaking free from unrepresentative rule under the British Crown, the Founding Fathers crafted a Constitution that enshrined individual liberties, free markets, and the pursuit of happiness.

This framework became a magnet for millions, from Irish fleeing famine to Italians escaping poverty, all drawn by the promise of a society where hard work could yield success regardless of birthright.

What makes the United States uniquely a land of opportunity? Its pillars—education, freedom, and free markets—form a foundation unmatched in scope and scale.

Education: The U.S. boasts some of the world’s top universities, attracting students globally. Institutions like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT are hubs of innovation, producing leaders in technology, medicine, and policy. Foreign students, who make up over 1 million of the U.S. higher education population annually, gain access to cutting-edge research and networks that propel their careers. Beyond academia, the U.S. offers robust public education and vocational training, equipping citizens and legal residents with skills to compete in a dynamic economy.

Freedoms: The Bill of Rights guarantees freedoms of speech, religion, and assembly, fostering an environment where ideas flourish. This liberty allows entrepreneurs to innovate, activists to advocate, and communities to self-organize. For immigrants, these freedoms offer a stark contrast to authoritarian regimes, enabling them to express their identities and aspirations without fear.

Free Markets: The U.S. economy, driven by capitalism, rewards initiative. From Silicon Valley startups to small businesses, the free market empowers individuals to turn ideas into wealth. Immigrants have historically thrived here—think of Andrew Carnegie, a Scottish immigrant who became a steel magnate, or modern tech giants like Elon Musk, born in South Africa. The U.S. remains a place where ambition can transcend barriers.

These pillars have sustained the U.S. as a destination for those willing to work hard and abide by its laws. However, the privilege of accessing these opportunities, especially for foreign nationals, comes with clear expectations.

The United States welcomes millions of foreign nationals annually—students, workers, and visitors—who enrich its cultural and economic fabric. In 2023, over 1 million international students studied in the U.S., contributing $40 billion to the economy, while programs like H-1B visas bring skilled professionals to fill critical roles.

Yet, these individuals enter as guests, subject to the laws and regulations of the U.S. government, with the President as the ultimate authority over immigration policy through the Executive Branch.

Foreign students and other visa holders sign agreements acknowledging that their stay is conditional. Even minor infractions, such as traffic violations, can jeopardize their status. The Immigration and Nationality Act outlines grounds for deportation, including criminal activity, visa overstays, or actions deemed contrary to national interests.

Due process for legal foreign nationals involves immigration courts, but their guest status can be revoked at the government’s discretion, particularly for law violations.

This principle of sovereignty is not unique to the U.S. Other nations enforce similar standards for American citizens abroad. U.S. citizens who break foreign laws face detention or deportation, often with limited recourse.

Here are several examples:

Otto Warmbier (North Korea, 2016): A University of Virginia student, Warmbier was detained in North Korea for allegedly stealing a propaganda poster. Sentenced to 15 years of hard labor, he was released in a coma after 17 months and died shortly after. His case highlighted the severe consequences of violating laws in authoritarian regimes.

Brittney Griner (Russia, 2022): The WNBA star was detained in Moscow for possessing v**e cartridges containing cannabis oil, illegal in Russia. She was sentenced to nine years in prison before being released in a prisoner swap after 10 months. Her detention underscored Russia’s strict drug laws and the risks for Americans abroad.

Evan Gershkovich (Russia, 2023): A Wall Street Journal reporter, Gershkovich was arrested on espionage charges, which the U.S. deemed baseless. He was detained for over a year before being released in a multi-nation prisoner exchange in 2024. His case illustrated how foreign governments can use legal systems to target Americans for political reasons.

Andrew Tahmooressi (Mexico, 2014): A U.S. Marine veteran, Tahmooressi was detained for seven months after crossing into Mexico with fi****ms, illegal under Mexican law. Despite claims of an accidental border crossing, he was held until diplomatic efforts secured his release.

These cases demonstrate that nations worldwide, like the U.S., expect visitors to respect their laws. Americans abroad are not exempt from consequences, just as foreign nationals in the U.S. are not immune to deportation for violations.

The U.S. has a proud tradition of welcoming immigrants, with over 40 million foreign-born residents today. However, illegal immigration and lax enforcement strain resources and undermine the rule of law. In 2023, U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported over 2.5 million encounters at the southern border, many involving undocumented migrants.

The cost of supporting undocumented immigrants—estimated at $150 billion annually—diverts funds from pressing domestic needs, such as addressing homelessness (over 600,000 Americans are homeless on any given night) or supporting endangered communities.

Elected officials must prioritize legal pathways for immigration while enforcing existing laws. Streamlining visa processes, expanding guest worker programs, and clarifying citizenship routes would reduce illegal entries and reward those who respect the system.

Simultaneously, officials should reject policies that incentivize subversion, such as sanctuary cities or benefits for undocumented individuals, which erode public trust.
Taxpayers deserve a system that prioritizes citizens and legal residents.

Programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid struggle to meet demand, yet billions are spent on services for undocumented immigrants. Reallocating these funds could bolster support for veterans, the elderly, or infrastructure, ensuring the U.S. remains a land of opportunity for those already here.

The Americas, and the United States in particular, will always be a land of opportunity because of their unique blend of freedom, innovation, and resilience. To preserve this legacy, the nation must balance its generosity with accountability. Welcoming legal immigrants and students who contribute to society strengthens the U.S., but tolerating lawlessness weakens it. By fostering legal immigration, enforcing sovereignty, and investing in citizens, the U.S. can ensure that the promise of opportunity endures for generations.

The story of the Americas is one of constant renewal, where people from all walks of life have found a chance to thrive. Let us honor that history by upholding the laws that make it possible, ensuring that this land remains a beacon for those who seek a better life—and are willing to respect the nation that offers it.

Sources:

U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 2023 Border Encounter Data

Federation for American Immigration Reform, 2023 Cost of Illegal Immigration

National Low Income Housing Coalition, 2023 Homelessness Statistics

U.S. Department of State, Reports on Otto Warmbier, Brittney Griner, Evan Gershkovich, and Andrew Tahmooressi

Institute of International Education, 2023 Open Doors Report on International Students

06/11/2025

The Battle Space of America: Violence by Illegal Foreign Nationals in 2025, Historical Reflections

Scott Davis
CISG Media USA - Washington, DC June 16, 2025

The United States is engulfed in a wave of violent unrest, centered in Los Angeles, where foreign nationals illegally in the country have spearheaded protests in response to aggressive Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. These protests, marked by attacks on law enforcement, looting, arson, and widespread property damage, have disrupted local communities, strained public resources, and exposed a troubling disconnect in the responses of state and local leaders.

With this article I hope to provide an in-depth and balanced examination of the current violence, reflect on historical parallels, address the history of foreign nationals engaging in subversive acts, evaluates the analogy of a parent demanding maturity from overly provided-for children, and highlights the impact on local communities alongside the hubristic and out-of-touch reactions of California’s leadership.

Violent Protests in Los Angeles, June 2025

On June 6, 2025, violent protests erupted in Los Angeles following ICE raids targeting foreign nationals illegally in the U.S., many with alleged criminal ties, including gang affiliations. While some demonstrations have been peaceful, confined to a five-block stretch of Downtown LA, many have descended into chaos, driven by illegal foreign nationals engaging in coordinated attacks on Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) officers and federal forces.

These acts include looting businesses, setting fire to Waymo autonomous vehicles, defacing public buildings, and assaulting law enforcement with projectiles, Molotov cocktails, and makeshift weapons. Over 40 arrests have been made, with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirming that a majority of those detained are undocumented immigrants, some with prior convictions for violent crimes.

The violence intensified on June 7 in Paramount and Compton, where additional raids sparked further clashes. President Donald Trump responded by federalizing the California National Guard, deploying 2,100 troops on June 8, followed by 700 Marines on June 9. DHS reported over 1,000 rioters, predominantly illegal foreign nationals, surrounding a federal building in Downtown LA, trapping ICE officers inside and causing significant structural damage. Social media posts from Reuters and eyewitness accounts describe police using “less lethal” munitions, tear gas, and batons to disperse crowds, with downtown declared an “unlawful assembly area” by June 8.

The impact on local communities has been profound. Small businesses in Downtown LA, already struggling post-COVID, have been looted or burned, with damages estimated at $10 million. Residents report feeling unsafe, with many avoiding public spaces due to ongoing clashes. Schools in affected areas have shifted to remote learning, and public transit disruptions have stranded low-income workers. The deployment of federal troops has further polarized communities, with some residents supporting the crackdown and others decrying it as an overreach that exacerbates tensions.

State and local leaders have been widely criticized for their response—or lack thereof. California Governor Gavin Newsom called the federal response “a reckless escalation,” accusing President Trump of “politicizing a humanitarian issue” without addressing the role of illegal foreign nationals in the violence. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass described the raids as causing “fear and panic” among “parents and children,” framing protesters as victims while sidestepping evidence of their criminal acts. These statements, perceived as hubristic and out of touch, have infuriated residents who feel leaders are minimizing the destruction.

Newsom’s refusal to deploy state resources to assist federal forces and Bass’s delay in declaring a local emergency—only enacted on June 9 after pressure from business owners—have been labeled as inaction by critics. Posts on X reflect public frustration, with users calling Bass’s remarks “tone-deaf” and Newsom’s stance “arrogantly dismissive of Angelenos’ suffering.”

Historical Context: Violence in America’s Past

These 2025 Los Angeles protests, driven by illegal foreign nationals, are distinct from past civil unrest but share some thematic parallels. The 1992 Los Angeles riots, triggered by the acquittal of officers in the Rodney King beating, resulted in 53 deaths, over 2,000 injuries, and $1 billion in damages. Those riots stemmed from domestic racial and economic grievances, unlike the current protests, which center on immigration enforcement and involve foreign actors. The 1967 Newark riots (26 deaths) and the 1968 riots after Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination (dozens dead) were similarly rooted in domestic issues, with no notable foreign involvement.

More recent unrest, such as the 2020 George Floyd protests, saw violence in cities like Minneapolis and Portland, but these were driven by U.S. citizens, with federal deployments criticized for escalating tensions—a critique echoed in 2025. Political violence has surged, from the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack to plots like the 2020 attempt to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, but these involved domestic extremists, not foreign nationals. The 2025 protests stand out due to the prominent role of illegal foreign nationals, raising unique concerns about sovereignty and public safety.

Historically, violence by foreign nationals on U.S. soil has been rare and heavily contextual. During World War II, German saboteurs landed in the U.S. to target infrastructure but were swiftly apprehended. The 2001 September 11 attacks by al-Qaeda operatives, many foreign nationals, killed nearly 3,000 and prompted a global U.S. response. These cases differ from 2025, where illegal foreign nationals are openly engaging in localized but brazen acts of violence, seemingly emboldened by years of lax enforcement.

Foreign Nationals and Subversive Acts

The question of when foreign nationals were last “allowed” to conduct violent subversive acts openly against the U.S. hinges on the term “allowed,” implying governmental tolerance or failure to act. The 2025 Los Angeles protests represent a rare case where illegal foreign nationals are openly attacking law enforcement and destroying property, with DHS identifying many as undocumented immigrants with criminal records.

This situation suggests a breakdown in enforcement, as years of sanctuary policies in California may have enabled such actors to operate with impunity.

Historically, subversive acts by foreign nationals have been covert and met with decisive action. The 2001 attacks were a catastrophic exception, followed by the Patriot Act and the War on Terror. In 2025, a Pakistani national was convicted for smuggling Iranian weapons to Yemen, and British and Chinese nationals were indicted for plots to silence U.S. dissidents, but these were clandestine, not open, acts.

These recent protests, by contrast, involve visible, coordinated violence, with illegal foreign nationals using Mexican flags and anti-American rhetoric, as noted in DHS reports. This openness, coupled with slow state response, has fueled perceptions that such acts are being “allowed” to persist longer than they should.

The Trump administration has framed the protests as a “foreign invasion,” a claim critics argue exaggerates the threat for political gain. However, the involvement of illegal foreign nationals in violent acts lends some credence to concerns about subversion, particularly given their access to public resources and the strain on local communities. Balancing enforcement with humanitarian considerations remains a challenge, as heavy-handed raids risk alienating broader immigrant communities while inaction emboldens further violence.

The Parent-Child Analogy: A Fit for the Current Moment?

The analogy of a parent who has provided for their children’s every need, only to suddenly demand they “grow up,” offers a framework to interpret the violent protests by foreign nationals illegally in the U.S. in June 2025. In this metaphor, the “parent” represents the U.S. government or society, which has provided resources, services, or leniency to illegal foreign nationals, often in ways that parallel or even exceed support for U.S. citizens in similar socioeconomic situations.

The “children” symbolize these foreign nationals, now facing abrupt demands for accountability through aggressive ICE raids and deportations. This section evaluates the analogy, incorporating a comparison of the money and services provided to illegal foreign nationals versus U.S. citizens.

The analogy resonates strongly with the 2025 protests.

For decades, the U.S. has provided significant resources to undocumented immigrants, particularly in sanctuary states like California. A 2023 Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) report estimates that illegal immigration costs taxpayers $150 billion annually, including $23 billion for K-12 education for children of illegal immigrants, $36 billion for healthcare (primarily Medicaid and emergency room care), and $12 billion for welfare programs like SNAP and housing assistance, often accessed through U.S.-citizen children or fraudulent means. In California, the state budget for 2024 allocated $1.3 billion for Medi-Cal coverage for undocumented immigrants, a benefit unavailable to low-income citizens in many other states.

By comparison, U.S. citizens in similar low-income situations receive substantial but often less accessible support. SNAP provides about $291 monthly per household for eligible citizens, but undocumented immigrants access equivalent benefits through 4.5 million U.S.-born children, costing $8 billion annually. Medicaid spending averages $7,000 per enrollee for citizens, while emergency Medicaid for undocumented immigrants costs California $3 billion yearly for 1 million beneficiaries, often covering similar acute care needs. Public education costs $14,000 per student annually for both groups, but overcrowded schools in high-immigration areas strain resources for citizen families. Housing assistance is a stark disparity: low-income citizens face waitlists of up to seven years for Section 8 vouchers ($9,000 per household annually), while California’s $250 million in 2024 for mixed-status family housing indirectly benefits undocumented immigrants, bypassing federal restrictions.

This generous provision, coupled with lax enforcement, paints the U.S. as a nurturing “parent” who has supported illegal foreign nationals, sometimes at the expense of citizens.

The Trump administration’s 2025 crackdown—targeting workplaces like Home Depot and community hubs—represents a sudden demand for these “children” to face deportation or legal consequences. The violent response, including attacks on law enforcement and property destruction, could be seen as a rebellious backlash, akin to children resisting a parent’s call for maturity after years of indulgence.

Mayor Bass’s remarks about raids causing “fear and panic” among “parents and children” inadvertently reinforce this analogy, highlighting the disruption felt by communities accustomed to these resources.

The analogy’s strength lies in capturing the shock of policy reversal. Illegal foreign nationals, having benefited from public services and economic opportunities in the informal economy, now face a harsh reckoning. However, it has limitations. It oversimplifies protesters’ motivations, which may stem from fear of family separation or economic survival rather than entitlement.

The comparison of services also reveals tensions: citizens often face stricter eligibility rules and longer waitlists, fueling resentment that the “parent” prioritizes “outsiders.” Moreover, the “parent” is fractured—Newsom and Bass’s resistance to federal raids undermines unified authority. Finally, the analogy risks infantilizing illegal foreign nationals, ignoring their agency and the systemic factors, like employer demand for cheap labor, that enabled their presence.

Impact on Local Communities and Leadership Failures

The violence has devastated Los Angeles communities. Small businesses, particularly in Latino and immigrant-heavy neighborhoods, have been looted or burned, with losses exceeding $10 million.

The destruction of Waymo vehicles and public infrastructure has disrupted transit, stranding workers and costing the city millions in repairs. Schools have closed, forcing parents to scramble for childcare, and healthcare facilities report strain from treating injuries sustained in clashes.

Residents express fear and frustration, with X posts describing neighborhoods as “war zones” and lamenting the loss of community cohesion.

The inaction and hubristic responses of state and local leaders have compounded the crisis. Newsom’s refusal to mobilize state resources, coupled with his portrayal of the protests as a “humanitarian issue,” ignores the criminality of many protesters, alienating residents who demand accountability.

Bass’s delay in declaring an emergency—despite clear evidence of looting and arson—has been called “grossly negligent” by local business associations. Her focus on the “fear” of immigrant families, while ignoring the fear of citizens facing violence, has been labeled out of touch. Both leaders’ statements dismiss the role of illegal foreign nationals, framing the unrest as solely a reaction to federal overreach, which critics argue emboldens further lawlessness.

This disconnect has eroded trust, with polls showing 60% of Angelenos disapproving of Bass’s handling of the crisis as of June 10, 2025.

This violence in Los Angeles, driven by foreign nationals illegally in the U.S., marks a distinct and troubling chapter in America’s history of unrest. Unlike past domestic-driven riots, the involvement of illegal foreign nationals in attacks on law enforcement, looting, and arson raises urgent questions about enforcement failures and national security.

Historically, open subversive acts by foreign nationals have been rare and swiftly countered, making the current situation a concerning anomaly exacerbated by state inaction.

The parent-child analogy captures the shock of sudden enforcement after years of generous support—often rivaling aid for citizens—but oversimplifies the complex motivations and systemic issues at play.

Local communities bear the brunt of this “battle space,” with businesses destroyed, residents displaced, and public services strained. The hubristic and out-of-touch responses of Newsom and Bass, marked by inaction and dismissive rhetoric, have deepened public distrust and prolonged the crisis.

De-escalation requires balanced enforcement—targeting criminal actors without alienating broader communities—coupled with honest leadership that acknowledges the role of illegal foreign nationals. Long-term solutions must address root causes, from immigration policy failures to economic incentives for illegal labor, to restore stability and rebuild fractured communities.

CISG Media USA

07/06/2025

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