Judge Blocks Deportation Flights to Libya Without Prior Notice

A federal judge has thrown a wrench into potential deportation plans, ruling that sending illegal immigrants to Libya or Saudi Arabia without prior notice would violate a standing court order. U.S. District Judge Brian E. Murphy, a Biden appointee, emphasized that immigrants must receive written notice and a chance to claim protection under the Convention Against Torture (CAT) before any such flights take off.

Rumors of imminent deportation flights to Libya surfaced after immigration attorneys, representing clients from Vietnam, Laos, and the Philippines, cited alarming reports from their clients and media. They claimed immigration enforcement agents warned of deportations to Libya, a nation notorious for human rights abuses, particularly against migrants. The attorneys swiftly sought a temporary restraining order to halt these moves, arguing their clients were denied the required legal protections.

Judge Murphy’s ruling reinforces his April 2025 injunction, which mandates clear communication with immigrants and their counsel in a language they understand. He also clarified that the Department of Homeland Security cannot sidestep this order by transferring responsibilities to other agencies, like the Department of Defense. “If there’s any doubt—the Court sees none,” Murphy wrote, signaling zero tolerance for violations.

While the Trump administration hasn’t confirmed any deportation flights, speculation intensified after reports of a C-17 military plane scheduled to fly from Texas to Libya’s Misrata Airport. Libya’s Tripoli-based government denied any deportation deal with the U.S., though it hinted at possible agreements with rival factions in eastern Libya. The region’s fractured politics, split between competing administrations, adds layers of complexity to the situation.

The administration’s broader deportation strategy includes exploring third countries like Panama and Costa Rica for non-citizen removals. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem dodged questions about Libya plans, while the State Department remained tight-lipped on diplomatic talks. As the debate rages, the human stakes—migrants facing uncertain fates in volatile regions—remain front and center.