Trump may fire missiles and close major roads in California during ‘No Kings’ protests, US military clarifies on live firing

Four months after millions of people across the country protested President Donald Trump’s actions, organizers of the “No Kings” rallies have planned a second event for Saturday, Oct. 18. Dozens of demonstrations will take place across Southern California, including Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Downtown L.A., Pico Robertson, Venice, and Santa Monica, protesting the administration’s policies amid the ongoing government shutdown.

At the same time, the Los Angeles Times reported, citing unconfirmed sources from California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office, that parts of Interstate 5 in Oceanside could be closed on Friday and Saturday due to an event marking the 250th anniversary of the US Marine Corps, which will feature live artillery firing.

Media outlet MediaTouch, citing unnamed sources, reported that the Trump administration “may launch missiles from Warships into California.” Regarding the I-5 closure, the report states: “Sources close to MeidasTouch describe the closure as part of a ‘vanity parade’ that may involve Navy warships shooting live missiles into Camp Pendleton as a ‘show of force.’” The report does not provide further details. According to the LA Times, the artillery firing event may lead to I-5 closures but is not related to the planned ‘No Kings’ protests in Oceanside.

What the US navy says

In a post shared on X, the US Marine corps says that they will showcase their “live-fire amphibious capabilities on Oct. 18, with I Marine Expeditionary Force hosting a “live-fire” Amphibious Capabilities Demonstration at Red Beach, Camp Pendleton, as part of celebrations for the Marine Corps’ 250th birthday and America’s Semiquincentennial.

It further clarifies on road closure that “No public highways or transportation routes will be closed.” Officials noted for safety that “all training events will occur on approved training ranges and comport with established safety protocols.”

Afterward, marines, sailors, and their families will gather at Del Mar Beach for a Beach Bash with food, music, and family activities. However, there is no information about the road closure.

About Navy’s event

The event, titled “America’s Marines 250: From Sea to Shore — A Review of Amphibious Strength,” will showcase the Marine Corps’ evolution as a global force in readiness and its commitment to amphibious warfare, according to a press release announcing the affair, as per Fox News. Vice President Vance, a former Marine himself, served with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing as a combat correspondent and deployed to Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He is the first Marine to serve as Vice President of the United States.
More than 15,000 Marines, Navy sailors, veterans, and their families are expected to attend the celebration, which will feature a live amphibious assault demonstration, a review of amphibious strength, and keynote remarks from national military leaders and dignitaries. Joining Vice President Vance on stage will be Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan, and Marine Corps Commandant General Eric M. Smith.