Detained migrants given 12 hours to contest deportation under Alien Enemies Act: ICE

The Trump administration’s new policy regarding migrants contesting deportation has sparked controversy and concern among legal experts and advocates. According to a recently unsealed document from a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) official, migrants are now given as little as 12 hours to contest their deportation after being formally notified.
This development has raised questions about the fairness and due process rights of individuals facing deportation. The document, which was revealed in a Texas federal court case, outlines the process for migrants to express their intent to file a habeas petition under the Alien Enemies Act within a short timeframe.
Typically, those facing deportation would have 24 hours to file a habeas petition, but the new policy reduces this to just 12 hours. The document states that if a migrant does not express an intent to file a petition within the specified time frame, ICE may proceed with the removal, although the actual deportation may not occur for several more hours or even days, providing the individual with additional time to file a petition.
The unsealing of this document comes in the midst of a legal challenge from lawyers representing detained migrants in Texas. The Supreme Court recently intervened to halt President Donald Trump’s deportations of Venezuelan criminals under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. However, the decision was met with dissent from Justices Alito and Thomas, who questioned the timing and necessity of the order.
The controversy surrounding the new deportation policy highlights the ongoing debate over immigration enforcement and the rights of migrants. Advocates and legal experts continue to monitor developments in this area to ensure that individuals facing deportation are afforded the necessary protections and due process rights.
As the debate over immigration policy continues to evolve, it is essential for policymakers, advocates, and legal experts to work together to find solutions that uphold the rule of law while also respecting the rights and dignity of all individuals involved. The protection of migrants’ rights and the fair administration of justice must remain a top priority in our immigration system.