Federal Judge Halts Deportation of Hundreds Guatemalan Children

A U.S. federal judge, Sparkle Sooknanan, issued a temporary restraining order halting the Trump administration's attempt to deport hundreds of unaccompanied Guatemalan migrant children back to their home country. The order came amid last-minute efforts to deport these minors from Texas, with the judge emphasizing the need to protect vulnerable children and ensure legal processes are followed. Lawyers representing the children argued that deportations would violate U.S. laws and endanger these minors, many of whom face neglect, abuse, or life-threatening medical conditions if returned. The Trump administration defended its actions as efforts to reunite children with their families, but faced criticism and legal setbacks, including from judges who stressed constitutional protections for immigrants. This legal battle highlights the ongoing tension between the administration's strict immigration policies and congressional safeguards designed to protect unaccompanied migrant children. The deportations were paused as courts continue to review the cases, reflecting deep divisions over immigration enforcement under President Trump's leadership.