The Trump administration deported hundreds of migrants to El Salvador, defying a federal judge’s restraining order. The ACLU is investigating potential violations, while the use of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 raises constitutional concerns. Videos from El Salvador showcase the harsh treatment of deported individuals, illustrating the government’s approach to immigration enforcement during this contentious period.
The Trump administration deported hundreds of migrants to El Salvador despite a federal judge’s ruling that temporarily halted such removals. This action was undertaken while flights were in the air, with one plane heading to El Salvador and another to Honduras. U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg attempted to impose a turnaround order verbally, which he did not document in writing, resulting in the deportations proceeding as planned.
Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele commented on the situation, remarking, “Oopsie…Too late,” while also agreeing to house approximately 300 migrants for a year at a cost of $6 million. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the transfers, stating the U.S. sent over 250 suspected members of the Tren de Aragua gang to El Salvador, emphasizing the deal would alleviate taxpayer expenses.
The administration invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, a law utilized rarely in U.S. history. This measure has only been applied during times of war, granting extraordinary powers to the President to detain or deport foreigners, thereby bypassing the usual immigration protections. The law was previously invoked during World War II to detain Japanese-American civilians.
The ACLU, responsible for the lawsuit that initiated the restraining order against deportations, is investigating whether the government violated the court’s ruling. ACLU lawyer Lee Gelernt stated that they are awaiting confirmation from the government regarding the legality of the removals.
Venezuela’s government condemned the use of the Alien Enemies Act, comparing it to historical injustices, including slavery and Nazi concentration camps. The Tren de Aragua gang has provided a narrative leveraged by the Trump administration during electoral campaigns, suggesting an exaggerated portrayal of criminal activity.
Notably, the Trump administration has not substantiated claims that the deported individuals are indeed associated with Tren de Aragua or have committed crimes. Videos released depict the migrants being escorted under strict security measures, emphasizing the severe conditions under which they were transported to a notorious prison known as CECOT.
The President signed the deportation proclamation on Friday but did not announce it until Saturday, prompting immigration lawyers to intervene after noticing Venezuelans being transported to Texas for deportation. Human rights advocate Adam Isacson warned that the act’s invocation allows potential wrongful removals of Venezuelan citizens based solely on alleged gang affiliations.
Legal proceedings initiated on behalf of detained Venezuelans have led to Judge Boasberg temporarily barring deportations for up to 14 days while reminding the court that the migrants deserve due process. A hearing has been scheduled to deliberate further on the implications of the case.
The Trump administration’s recent deportation of hundreds of migrants to El Salvador raises significant legal and ethical concerns, especially given the violation of a federal judge’s order. The invocation of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 further complicates this matter, as it has rarely been employed outside wartime. The ongoing ACLU lawsuit emphasizes the necessity of upholding the constitutional rights of those affected. As the situation evolves, the implications for immigration policy and human rights remain critically significant.
Original Source: apnews.com
