The Trump administration on Tuesday urged the Supreme Court to permit the deportation of immigrants to South Sudan, a war-torn nation where they have no connections.
This request follows the Supreme Court’s recent decision allowing immigration officials to resume rapid deportations to third countries, halting a lower court’s order protecting migrants from removal to dangerous locations.
However, U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy in Boston ruled that a May deportation flight diverted to Djibouti cannot immediately continue to South Sudan.
Murphy, appointed by President Biden, held that migrants must be allowed to argue in court they face torture or serious harm if sent to South Sudan.
The administration condemned the ruling as a “lawless act of defiance” that disrupts diplomatic relations and obstructs lawful removals.
Attorneys for the migrants warn that deportation to South Sudan could lead to imprisonment, torture, or death due to the country’s prolonged violence and political instability.
South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, has suffered ongoing conflict since its 2011 independence, raising fears of a renewed civil war.
The Trump administration’s push to deport millions includes agreements with third countries like Panama and Costa Rica to accept migrants who cannot be returned to their homelands.
Murphy did not block deportations to third countries entirely but emphasized that migrants deserve a fair chance to present claims of danger.
The administration appealed to the Supreme Court, whose conservative majority swiftly stayed Murphy’s order without explanation, while liberal justices strongly dissented.
The case highlights deep tensions over immigration enforcement amid a broader crackdown under the Trump administration.
