San Diego residents have held a series of anti-war protests in recent days, urging de-escalation as the U.S.–Israel military operation against Iran enters its second week with casualties mounting on all sides.

On March 7, the Party for Socialism and Liberation organized an emergency demonstration at Memorial Community Park in San Diego. Organizer Jonathan Chavez, a Marine Corps veteran, spoke to the crowd about his opposition to the conflict. "This war has nothing to do with protecting the American people," Chavez said. "Most Americans do not support war with Iran or endless military intervention, yet these policies continue." Separately, CODEPINK San Diego held a "Stop the War on Iran" rally at Ocean Beach the same day as part of a nationwide day of action.

The protests reflect particular resonance in a region home to some of the largest military installations in the United States, including Naval Base Coronado, Naval Base San Diego, and MCAS Miramar — all of which have increased security measures since the conflict began. Many San Diego families have service members currently deployed in the Middle East theater.

Demonstrators say the impact of the conflict is already being felt locally — from surging gas prices driven by Strait of Hormuz disruptions to heightened security protocols affecting daily commutes near military facilities. One protester told East County Magazine she hopes political leaders "see that there are people who genuinely care and are willing to take time out of their day to show up."

The demonstrations come as the Pentagon confirmed on March 10 that seven U.S. military members have been killed and approximately 140 wounded in Operation Epic Fury since it began on February 28. Across the region, activists and military families alike are watching closely as the conflict — and its local consequences — continue to unfold.