Trump Administration Deports Migrants Under Alien Enemies Act Despite Judicial Block

Despite a judge’s temporary ruling to halt his use of wartime powers, former President Donald Trump has proceeded with deportations under the Alien Enemies Act, a rarely invoked law allowing the removal of foreign nationals from countries deemed hostile to U.S. interests.

The deportations primarily targeted Venezuelan migrants with alleged gang affiliations, particularly members of the feared Tren de Aragua criminal organization. The administration has defended its actions as necessary for national security, arguing that criminal networks have exploited the U.S. immigration system.

Legal experts and immigrant rights groups have raised concerns over the use of the Alien Enemies Act, originally enacted in 1798, warning that it could set a dangerous precedent for mass deportations based on nationality rather than individual criminal behavior.

The Biden administration has yet to issue a formal response to the developments, while human rights organizations are preparing legal challenges to contest the move.