Anson, Texas: A federal appeals court ruled that Trump unlawfully used the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelans linked to the Tren de Aragua gang.

The 5th Circuit Court ruled 2-1 to halt the planned deportations. Judges Southwick and Ramirez rejected claims of a “predatory incursion.” Judge Oldham dissented.

The law allows deportations only during war or invasion, but Trump applied it in peacetime. The case may reach the full 5th Circuit or the Supreme Court.

ACLU lawyer Lee Gelernt said the ruling stops the government from avoiding court review. The case involves Texas inmates linked to Tren de Aragua, labeled a state-backed terrorist group.

The Supreme Court previously halted deportations, criticizing the one-day notice given to detainees. Justices Thomas and Alito dissented.