The Pentagon announced the withdrawal of 700 U.S. Marines from Los Angeles, ending their deployment in response to recent protests.

Mobilized in June to protect federal property, the Marines’ presence was intended to reinforce order, though they were barred from law enforcement duties.

Their deployment, along with 2,000 California National Guard troops, drew strong criticism from California leaders, who called it a political overreach by the Trump administration, CNN has reported.

Gov. Gavin Newsom and LA Mayor Karen Bass condemned the militarization of the response, while the Pentagon estimated the operation’s cost at $134 million.

Written by B.C. Begley