Media ignited for “meaningless” deportation stories
A federal judge indicated on Wednesday that any potential deportation flights to Libya or Saudi Arabia would breach a court order unless the Trump administration gives advanced notice to affected immigrants and their legal representatives.
While the administration hasn’t officially confirmed any deportation plans to those countries, a group of lawyers representing undocumented individuals from places like Vietnam, Laos, and the Philippines reported in legal documents that their clients had been informed of impending deportations to either Libya or Saudi Arabia.
During a court session, immigration lawyers requested District Judge Brian E. Murphy, appointed by former President Joe Biden, to issue a temporary restraining order.
Judge Murphy ruled that immigration lawyers aren’t required to file a formal complaint for the court to recognize violations of prior orders concerning the removal of undocumented immigrants to Libya, even if they didn’t have a chance to pursue torture protection claims.
The judge noted, “The interim injunction from April 18, 2025, specifies that written notices must be provided to both non-citizens and their attorneys before removals, in languages they can understand. This ensures they can raise their claims regarding fear of persecution or torture.” He also clarified that the Department of Homeland Security cannot bypass this injunction by delegating its authority over non-citizens to other agencies.
“While it seems evident that the plaintiffs may support their claims based on media reports, the court hasn’t confirmed anything yet,” he added.
Fox News Digital sought comments from the Department of Homeland Security on Thursday.
In their request for intervention, immigration lawyers mentioned allegations from clients’ lawyers that claimed “immediate removal” processes were in place for undocumented immigrants from Laos, Vietnam, and the Philippines, regions known for severe human rights issues, particularly regarding immigrants.
“Despite lacking necessary notifications or chances to apply for protection, these individuals were scheduled for removal,” the lawyers contended.
Additionally, Judge Murphy referenced public reports indicating that scheduled flights could be moving migrants from San Antonio, Texas, to Misrata Airport in Libya. An anonymous U.S. official mentioned plans for military flights to deport individuals to Libya, though no specifics regarding flight schedules were disclosed.
Libya’s government denied any agreements with the U.S. regarding deportations, but they did mention potential parallels that might suggest prior discussions.
This remark seemingly alluded to the ongoing conflict between rival factions in Libya, particularly one managed by Khalifa Hifter, a military commander, which has contested control with the Tripoli-based government. The Hifter-led National Army also denied any accords or understandings to take in U.S. immigrants.
On Wednesday, President Trump directed the Department of Homeland Security to clarify its stance. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem stated she couldn’t verify media claims about deportations to Libya. The State Department opted not to comment on diplomatic communications with other nations.
Furthermore, the Trump administration is reportedly considering other third countries for deportations, including earlier action involving Venezuelans sent to El Salvador and others sent to Panama and Costa Rica, even though they weren’t citizens of those nations.
