US deports gang members to El Salvador against court order

In March 2025, four alleged members of the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang were deported from Guantanamo Bay to El Salvador by the United States. This deportation occurred shortly after a court order was issued, requiring that noncitizens be allowed to raise concerns about their safety before being sent to third countries. The case raised significant legal questions regarding jurisdiction and the responsibilities of different U.S. government departments during the deportation process. The Department of Justice contended that because the deportation was executed by the Department of Defense, it did not infringe upon the court's ruling, arguing that the Department of Homeland Security was not involved in the operation. However, opposing counsel articulated potential oversight issues regarding the transportation and legal custody of the detainees. This case has broader implications concerning U.S. immigration policy, particularly during negotiations for the use of El Salvador's mega prison for detaining individuals with alleged gang ties. Documents revealed that up to 500 such individuals were proposed to be sent to the facility as the U.S. sought a collaborative agreement with the Salvadoran government. Critics argue that using foreign prison facilities for U.S. detainees could lead to potential human rights violations and ethical concerns regarding treatment. The controversy surrounding these deportations has prompted responses from various stakeholders, including non-profit organizations focused on immigration law and Democratic lawmakers who have vehemently criticized the decisions made by the Trump administration regarding immigration and detention policies. As the situation develops, discussions regarding legal custody, due process, and the safety of deported individuals continue to be in the spotlight, signifying a tumultuous period for immigration enforcement and international cooperation in law enforcement matters.