A US federal judge has extended an order blocking the deportation of Guatemalan migrant children in government custody. Judge Timothy J. Kelly issued the ruling on Saturday, September 14, 2025. The decision protects children who entered the United States without parents. These children currently reside in government shelters and foster care nationwide.
The extension follows a controversial Labor Day weekend operation. The Trump administration had attempted to rapidly remove dozens of these children to Guatemala. Immigration advocates immediately sued to stop the removals, leading to the initial temporary restraining order.
Legal Battle Halts Swift Deportation Efforts
Judge Kelly stated he needed more time to study the evolving case details. The facts changed significantly up to the September 10 hearing. During that hearing, government lawyers backtracked on key claims. They had previously asserted that the children’s parents had requested their return.
The original 14-day restraining order was granted earlier in September. It prevented the administration from removing migrant children in its care. The new extension continues that protection until September 16. Exceptions apply only if an immigration judge already ordered removal after reviewing individual cases.
According to Reuters, the government identified 457 children for potential removal to Guatemala. That list was later reduced to 327 children. Ultimately, 76 children were transported to airports in Texas. They boarded planes early on August 31 before legal intervention halted the operation.
Broader Implications for Migrant Protection Protocols
The case highlights tensions between immigration enforcement and child welfare laws. Advocates argued the government bypassed crucial legal procedures. These procedures protect young migrants from returning to dangerous situations. Many children flee abuse or violence in their home countries.
The government defended its actions, claiming the right to return children in its care. Officials stated they acted at the behest of the Guatemalan government. Guatemala expressed concern about minors approaching adulthood in US custody. They feared these individuals would transfer to adult detention facilities upon turning 18.
Typically, unaccompanied migrant children transfer to the Office of Refugee Resettlement. This office falls under the Health and Human Services Department. Children remain in a national shelter network until released to a sponsor, usually a relative.
This ruling underscores ongoing legal challenges to US immigration policy. The court’s intervention ensures continued protection for vulnerable migrant children. The situation remains fluid as both sides prepare for further legal arguments.
Thought you’d like to know
Why was the Trump administration deporting these children?
The administration stated it was acting at the request of the Guatemalan government. They argued they had the legal authority to return children in their custody to their home country.
How many children were affected by this ruling?
The government initially identified 457 children for potential removal. This number was later reduced to 327. Seventy-six children actually reached airports before the court order stopped the process.
What happens to unaccompanied migrant children normally?
They are usually transferred to the Office of Refugee Resettlement. They live in government-supervised shelters until released to a sponsor, typically a family member already in the United States.
How long will the judge’s order remain in effect?
The extended temporary restraining order is currently set to remain in effect until September 16, 2025. The judge may issue further rulings after reviewing additional evidence.
জুমবাংলা নিউজ সবার আগে পেতে Follow করুন জুমবাংলা গুগল নিউজ, জুমবাংলা টুইটার , জুমবাংলা ফেসবুক, জুমবাংলা টেলিগ্রাম এবং সাবস্ক্রাইব করুন জুমবাংলা ইউটিউব চ্যানেলে।
