A federal judge has temporarily blocked deportations under former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent proclamation that invoked a centuries-old wartime law. The order, issued on Saturday, aimed to expedite the expulsion of alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.
Judge James Boasberg placed a 14-day restraining order on the deportations, stating that the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 does not justify Trump’s move. He noted that the law was meant for wartime scenarios and applies to acts of aggression by foreign nations, not criminal organizations.
Earlier that day, Trump declared the gang an invading force, claiming its members engaged in “irregular warfare” and sought to destabilize the country. The law, historically used in wartime, allows for rapid deportation of individuals deemed threats without standard legal proceedings.
Civil rights groups and legal experts swiftly criticized the proclamation. Lee Gelernt, a lawyer with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), condemned the move, calling it “lawless” and warning against using wartime powers for immigration enforcement.
“This sets a dangerous precedent,” Gelernt told Reuters. “Using military authority during peacetime for immigration purposes is unprecedented and unlawful.”
However, supporters of the order, including Attorney General Pam Bondi, defended Trump’s decision. Bondi accused Judge Boasberg of siding with criminals over American safety.
“This ruling undermines the president’s well-established authority,” Bondi stated. “It puts both the public and law enforcement at serious risk.”
Under the directive, Venezuelan citizens aged 14 and older who are suspected gang members and are within the U.S. illegally face deportation. The order does not apply to naturalized citizens or lawful permanent residents.
The Alien Enemies Act, best known for its controversial use during World War II, led to the internment of Japanese, German, and Italian individuals in the U.S. Critics argue that reviving the law for modern immigration policies raises serious civil rights concerns.
The Trump administration previously classified Tren de Aragua, the Sinaloa Cartel, and six other criminal organizations as global terrorist groups. Officials claim the gang uses illegal migration to advance criminal activities in the U.S.
The legal battle over Trump’s order is expected to continue, with civil rights advocates preparing to challenge the policy further. Meanwhile, deportations remain on hold until the court makes a final ruling.
