US defends deportation policies amid Libya reports

The US State Department has confirmed its dedication to enforcing immigration policies and deporting foreign nationals who pose security threats or have entered the country illegally. This statement came in response to media reports about potential US plans to deport migrants to Libya.

Through an official spokesperson, the Department emphasised that enforcing immigration laws, including those implemented during the Trump administration, remains a “top priority.” The spokesperson added that deporting individuals with final removal orders or those who entered illegally is “essential to protecting the United States from external threats.”

Whilst asserting that the US does not return anyone to countries where they may face persecution, the Department declined to provide specific details about diplomatic communications with foreign governments. This includes whether direct consultations occurred with Libyan authorities or if Saddam Haftar’s recent Washington visit addressed deportation matters.

When questioned about Libya’s potential designation as a “safe third country” for asylum seeker deportations, the Department offered only a general response, noting that “several other countries have expressed a willingness to receive third-country nationals and facilitate the return of their own citizens,” without specifically mentioning Libya.

The spokesperson expressed gratitude to international partners assisting with deportee returns but indicated no publicly available estimates exist regarding how many individuals with criminal records might be included in such procedures.

Whilst neither confirming nor denying any pilot deportation programmes involving Libya, the Department reiterated that “enforcing US immigration laws is a fundamental part of protecting the rule of law and homeland security.”

CNN has reported, citing “multiple sources familiar with the discussions,” that the Trump administration has engaged in talks with officials in Libya and Rwanda about potentially sending migrants with criminal records to those countries.

The network further reported that administration officials hope to formalise negotiations with Libya toward establishing a “safe third country” agreement that would allow the US to return asylum seekers apprehended at the border to Libya.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​