The Trump regime’s occupation of Minneapolis with thousands of militarized ICE agents has resulted in horrific scenes of state violence and murder — part of a new mask-off authoritarian approach, as the US empire becomes more aggressive and dangerous both at home and abroad. It has also galvanized a courageous, inspiring, and effective grassroots resistance that shows the way forward for the left.

The Palestinian escape from Gaza and attack on their occupiers on October 7 was a desperate attempt to alter the status quo, and one of the greatest asymmetric warfare victories of our time. The operation galvanized unprecedented levels of support for the Palestinian struggle and brought it to the global forefront. As Marxists, we give unconditional, but critical support to this and all national liberation struggles.

Over the month since Charlie Kirk’s death, nearly all political stripes have condemned political violence. Meanwhile, Trump has declared war. But while many believe political violence is alien or a threat to capitalist democracy, both state and extra-state violence are baked into this system — and most often committed by the right.