Background and Notification
On September 5, 2025, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) notified Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran national and alleged MS-13 gang member, that he will be deported to Eswatini, a small African nation. This decision comes after Abrego Garcia's lawyers claimed he feared persecution or torture in 22 countries.
Initial Deportation Attempts
Initially, ICE had designated Uganda as the country for Abrego Garcia's removal. However, his attorneys argued that he would face persecution there, leading to a re-evaluation by ICE.
List of Countries and ICE's Response
Abrego Garcia provided a list of 22 countries where he claimed to fear persecution or torture. ICE found this list challenging to take seriously but decided to respect his requests.
Details of the Removal Notice
The removal notice, obtained by various sources, explicitly stated:
Implications and Current Status
The decision to deport Abrego Garcia to Eswatini has significant implications for his case and U.S. immigration policies. As of now, it is unclear when the deportation will take place or how Abrego Garcia will respond to this new development.
Ongoing Legal Battle
Abrego Garcia has been in a legal battle to avoid deportation, with his case drawing attention to the complexities of U.S. immigration and asylum policies. His attorneys have argued that he is eligible for asylum, while the Trump administration has contended that his membership in MS-13 makes him ineligible.
Expert Insights
Future Proceedings
The case is expected to continue through the legal system, with potential appeals and further challenges to the deportation order.
Public Reaction
The decision has sparked a range of reactions from advocacy groups, legal experts, and the general public. Many are closely watching the developments in this case, given its potential impact on U.S. immigration policies.
Conclusion
The notification of deportation to Eswatini marks a significant turn in the case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia. As the situation unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor the legal proceedings and any additional statements from ICE and Abrego Garcia's legal team.