A federal judge ordered the Trump administration to facilitate the return of certain Venezuelan migrants who were deported under the Alien Enemies Act so they can pursue legal challenges in U.S. courts.
U.S. District Judge James Boasberg said the number seeking return is likely small and they will remain in immigration custody if they reenter.
BREAKING: A federal judge ruled Thursday that President Donald Trump must return more than 100 Venezuelans deported to El Salvador under the Alien Enemies Act last spring. https://t.co/BgGE0dm0sH
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) February 12, 2026
The case involves Venezuelans accused of gang ties who were sent to El Salvador and later moved to other countries. The judge ruled the government must allow those who request it to travel to a U.S. port of entry or be flown back for hearings, setting a February deadline for attorneys to identify participants.
The administration argues the deportations were lawful national security measures targeting criminal organizations. The court said limited remedial steps are required to ensure access to legal proceedings without interfering in foreign policy.
The order does not apply to individuals currently in Venezuela and allows others to continue legal claims from abroad. The ruling underscores ongoing judicial oversight of immigration enforcement actions.
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