Judge Orders Restoration of VOA, RFA, MBN Staff

A federal judge has issued an injunction blocking the Trump administration's attempt to dismantle Voice of America (VOA), Radio Free Asia (RFA), and Middle East Broadcasting Networks (MBN), ordering their immediate restoration, rehiring of staff, and resumption of congressional funding. Judge Royce Lamberth ruled the administration acted arbitrarily and capriciously, stressing that only Congress—not the executive branch—has the authority to create or dismantle these agencies. The judge highlighted that the closures caused harm to employees, contractors, and global media consumers. The order does not extend to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty or the Open Technology Fund, which have filed separate lawsuits. VOA and affiliated staff, who were placed on administrative leave after Trump's executive order, welcomed the decision but recognized a potential appeal. The case spotlights concerns over press freedom and the role of U.S. international broadcasting against global disinformation.