U.S. President Donald Trump ordered the deportation of individuals associated with a Venezuelan gang using the Alien Enemies Act, but a judge issued a two-week injunction.
World War: On Saturday, U.S. President Donald Trump ordered the deportation of individuals connected to the notorious Venezuelan "Tren de Aragua" gang, invoking the Alien Enemies Act. This act, utilized during World War II, is being implemented by the Trump administration for the first time. However, Federal Judge James E. Boasberg has placed a two-week temporary restraining order on the deportations.
Gang Declared an 'Invading Force'
The Trump administration has designated the gang as an "invading force," claiming it poses a threat to U.S. national security. However, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Democracy Forward filed a lawsuit challenging this decision, arguing against the potential forced deportation of five Venezuelan citizens under the Alien Enemies Act.
Federal Court Injunction, But Legal Battle Continues
Federal Judge James Boasberg acted swiftly, issuing a two-week temporary restraining order. The Department of Justice has appealed this decision, and a full hearing is scheduled for the following Friday.
The Alien Enemies Act: What is it?
The Alien Enemies Act is a U.S. federal law passed in 1798 as part of the Alien and Sedition Acts. It grants the President the power to detain or deport citizens of "enemy" nations during wartime or national emergencies.
- This act was first applied to British citizens during the War of 1812.
- During World War I and World War II, it was used to detain German, Japanese, and Italian citizens residing in America.
- In World War II, the act led to the mass internment of Japanese-American citizens.
Why Did the Trump Administration Invoke This Act?
The Trump administration offered the following justifications for invoking this act:
National Security Threat: Venezuela's "Tren de Aragua" gang is fueling criminal activity within the United States.
Use of Wartime Powers: The President utilized his executive authority to declare the gang an invading force.
Detention of Suspected Gang Members: The U.S. has reached a $6 million agreement with El Salvador to detain 300 suspected gang members.
Need for Immediate Action: The administration believes swift expulsion of this gang is crucial to bolstering national security.
