The Trump administration intends to transport a group of immigrants to Libya using a U.S. military aircraft, marking a significant escalation in its deportation efforts despite serious human rights concerns about conditions in the North African nation.

U.S. officials speaking anonymously revealed the operation could begin as early as Wednesday, though the nationalities of the deportees remain undisclosed. The decision to select Libya as a destination has raised alarm among human rights advocates who have documented “horrific” and “deplorable” conditions in the country’s migrant detention centers. Libya continues to struggle with internal conflict following years of civil war after the 2011 overthrow of longtime dictator Muammar Gaddafi.

The Libya deportation aligns with the administration’s broader strategy to deter illegal immigration by establishing that those in the country unlawfully may be sent to nations with harsh conditions. This approach represents a stark departure from previous deportation practices, which typically returned migrants to their countries of origin or to third countries with established agreements. Officials noted the planning for the Libya flight has been closely guarded and could still face logistical, legal, or diplomatic obstacles before proceeding.

When contacted for comment, the White House declined to provide details about the operation. The State Department and Defense Department similarly did not respond to requests for information. Human rights organizations are expected to challenge the legality of deporting individuals to a country experiencing ongoing armed conflict and documented human rights abuses against migrants, potentially setting up another confrontation between the administration and federal courts over immigration enforcement powers.

(CP) WASHINGTON – Reported by Victoria Hayes.