The Trump administration deported hundreds of migrants to El Salvador, contrary to a judge’s order that temporarily halted such removals. Judge Boasberg’s ruling came as two planes were in the air, with the ACLU raising legal concerns. The situation involves historical legal precedents and significant implications for Venezuelan migrants.
The Trump administration proceeded to deport hundreds of migrants to El Salvador despite a federal judge’s ruling that temporarily halted such removals under an 18th-century law. U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg issued the order just as two planes carrying migrants were in transit, one bound for El Salvador and the other for Honduras.
In response to Boasberg’s order, Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele remarked on social media about the incident, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted a deal to house these migrants in Salvadoran prisons. The removals were executed following a proclamation based on the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, a law rarely invoked throughout U.S. history.
The ACLU, which prompted the judge’s restraining order, is currently investigating whether the government’s actions defied the court’s directive. Meanwhile, Venezuela’s government condemned the use of this law, drawing comparisons to historical atrocities.
The Trump administration has not publicly identified the migrants deported nor provided evidence linking them to the Tren de Aragua gang, which is associated with violent crime. Reports described video footage of the deportees being escorted under heavy security to a prison known for strict measures against crime.
Despite the legal hold the court placed on deportations, the Trump administration announced it had declared the gang as a national threat. Immigration lawyers raised alarms about the potential for wrongful accusations against Venezuelans, given the broad authority granted by the law. Judge Boasberg noted the unprecedented nature of this legal invocation outside of declared war and has temporarily halted deportations for up to 14 days, with further hearings planned to address the issue adequately.
In conclusion, the Trump administration’s deportation of migrants to El Salvador occurred despite a federal judge’s order blocking such actions. This situation underscores the legal and humanitarian complexities involved, especially regarding the use of historical laws to justify deportation. As litigation progresses, the implications for affected individuals and broader immigration policies remain critical and warrant careful scrutiny.
Original Source: apnews.com
