Federal District Judge Brian Murphy ruled Wednesday that the Republican administration cannot expel foreign nationals to other countries without prior notice or without giving them the opportunity to contest the decision — particularly when there is a risk of persecution or torture in the destination country.

"This case is about whether the government can, without advance notice, deport a person to the wrong country or to one in which they are likely to be persecuted or tortured, thereby depriving them of the opportunity to seek protection to which they are clearly entitled," Judge Murphy wrote in his ruling.

Murphy further ordered the government to provide substantial notification before carrying out any removal to a third country. The measure is intended to ensure due process, allowing affected individuals adequate time to challenge the deportation in court.

In his decision, the judge recalled that Congress established as U.S. policy that no person may be expelled, extradited, or involuntarily returned to a country where they face the risk of torture. "Congress has decided that the government cannot remove anyone to a country where their life or freedom would be in danger," he stated.

Murphy emphasized that these principles are deeply rooted in the nation's legislation and constitutional tradition. "These are our laws, and it is with profound gratitude for the remarkable fortune of having been born in the United States that this Court affirms these and the foundational principles of our nation: that no person in this country may be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law," the judge added.

The ruling comes amid a broad national debate over immigration policy. According to a recent poll, 69 percent of Americans believe Trump prioritizes deportations over the economy — a figure that reflects the deep polarization surrounding immigration enforcement measures.

The judicial decision could have significant implications for the implementation of deportation policies by establishing clear limits on how and to where removals may be carried out. It also reinforces the principle of non-refoulement — the international standard that prohibits sending a person to a country where they face serious threats to their life or freedom.

The administration may appeal the ruling to a higher court, while immigrant rights organizations are hailing the decision as a reaffirmation of basic constitutional guarantees, even within the realm of immigration policy.