The U.S. Department of Defense has instructed all 50 states and U.S. territories to establish National Guard “quick reaction” forces trained to handle riots and civil disturbances, according to internal memos reviewed by multiple news outlets.
The directive, issued under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, requires each state to form units capable of rapid deployment nationwide, with training in crowd control and riot response set to complete by the end of 2026. According to details received by The Chenab Times, the order aims to enhance domestic preparedness amid potential unrest, building on expanded military roles emphasized by President Donald Trump.
The memo outlines that over 20,000 National Guard members will receive specialized training, as reported by The Guardian. It specifies the creation of these forces to address “civil disturbances” across the country, including in major cities, Reuters noted.
Trump has previously advocated for greater military involvement in domestic security, including during the 2020 protests and in recent policy statements. The initiative aligns with his administration’s focus on rapid response capabilities, according to Newsweek.
Officials described the units as a precautionary measure to support local law enforcement when needed. No specific triggers for activation were detailed in the memos.
The Wall Street Journal first reported on the order, citing sources familiar with the planning. Hegseth’s office confirmed the broad outlines but provided no further comment on timelines or operational details.
Implementation will involve coordination between state governors and federal authorities, with initial assessments due by early next year.
Global Affairs Desk at The Chenab Times covers international developments, global diplomacy, and foreign policy issues through fact-based reporting, explainers, and analytical pieces. The desk focuses on major geopolitical events, diplomatic engagements, and international trends, with an emphasis on verified information, multiple perspectives, and contextual understanding of global affairs.
