United States District Judge James Boasberg has rejected an emergency request filed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) to halt the deportation of Venezuelan immigrants whom the administration of President Donald Trump has identified as alleged gang members. The decision was delivered during an emergency court session addressing the issue of immediate removals.

The ACLU had filed the motion on the grounds that deportation flights were imminent from a Texas-based immigration detention center. The civil rights organization sought to pause the removals, arguing that the individuals in question might be subject to unjust or dangerous conditions if returned to Venezuela.

However, Judge Boasberg ruled against the request, clearing the way for deportation proceedings to move forward. The decision comes amid rising tensions over immigration enforcement policies and the scope of executive authority regarding national security and immigration control.

Earlier during the proceedings, a Department of Justice attorney told the federal court that there were no deportation flights scheduled for that evening under the Alien Enemies Act, which governs certain immigration-related actions in times of conflict or emergency.

The Trump administration has invoked the Alien Enemies Act as part of its broader immigration enforcement strategy, particularly in cases involving non-citizens accused of posing threats to public safety or national security.

While the court’s ruling does not preclude future legal challenges, it underscores the administration’s commitment to continuing deportations it deems necessary for public safety. The ACLU has not yet indicated whether it will pursue further legal action in response to the denial.

The issue of deporting Venezuelans—especially those accused of criminal affiliations—remains a contentious topic within broader debates about immigration policy, human rights protections, and due process in the United States.