A United States federal judge has blocked an effort by the Trump administration to dismiss a lawsuit challenging its plan to transfer immigrants to the U.S. military base at Guantanamo in eastern Cuba.
Judge Sparkle L. Sooknanan of the District Court issued a ruling on Friday rejecting the government's motion and scheduled a hearing for next week, allowing both parties to discuss the future steps in the judicial process, according to the Associated Press.
Back in January, Trump announced that his administration intended to use Guantanamo to house thousands of what he termed the “worst foreign criminals,” as part of his controversial crackdown on illegal immigration.
Between February and June, federal authorities detained approximately 500 immigrants at the naval base, which was used as a transit point for individuals with final deportation orders, as highlighted in the court decision.
However, just a few days later, the detainees had to be returned to U.S. soil.
Lee Gelernt, an attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), praised the decision, expressing hope that the ruling would “end the unlawful policy of sending immigrants to military bases in the middle of nowhere for mere political show.”
The ACLU, along with other human rights organizations, argues that moving immigrants to Guantanamo is illegal and contradicts U.S. immigration laws.
Meanwhile, the Trump administration has maintained that it has the authority to detain individuals with final deportation orders at military facilities.
Known as “Gitmo,” Guantanamo gained notoriety for housing terrorism suspects transferred there following the September 11, 2001 attacks. The base, situated on Cuban land occupied by the U.S., has faced international criticism over alleged human rights abuses.
Understanding the Legal Battle over Guantanamo Detentions
What was the Trump administration's plan for immigrants at Guantanamo?
The Trump administration planned to use the military base at Guantanamo to detain thousands of immigrants labeled as “worst foreign criminals” in its effort to curb illegal immigration.
Why did a federal judge block this plan?
A federal judge blocked the plan, ruling against the government's motion to dismiss a lawsuit that challenges the legality of transferring immigrants to Guantanamo.
What is the ACLU's stance on this issue?
The ACLU opposes the plan, claiming it is an illegal practice against U.S. immigration laws and that it is politically motivated rather than based on legal grounds.