President Donald Trump has invoked the Alien Enemies Act for the first time since World War II, giving himself broad powers to deport those associated with a Venezuelan gang. However, a federal judge blocked the deportations hours later. The act, established in 1798, allows non-citizens to be deported without court proceedings during wartime.
The move comes amidst Trump’s efforts to crack down on illegal immigration, prompting fears of abuse of powers not seen since World War II. Critics argue that using the act in peacetime against non-state actors is an abuse of power.
Trump’s claim of an “invasion” by Latin American criminal gangs has raised concerns, as only a small fraction of illegal immigrants are criminals. The president identified the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang as an invading force engaged in warfare against the U.S.
The Trump administration has designated Tren de Aragua as a foreign terrorist organization, increasing pressure on cartels. The designation allows officials to argue that the gang’s activities amount to a limited invasion, a theory that has not been tested in court.
The Venezuelan government has been wary of accepting deportees from the U.S., with only a few repatriations in recent years. Despite legal challenges and opposition, Trump’s use of the Alien Enemies Act reflects his hardline stance on immigration and national security.
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