Judge Orders Return of Ahmed Soliman After Deportation to Equatorial Guinea

A federal judge has ordered the U.S. government to take steps to bring Ahmed Soliman back to the United States after he was deported to Equatorial Guinea. Judge John C. Hinderaker ruled that Soliman’s deportation violated his Fifth Amendment rights, which protect against the government depriving someone of life, liberty, or property without due process. The judge found that this action caused “irreparable harm” to Soliman, who remains in custody.

The order directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to make all reasonable efforts to secure Soliman’s release, arrange for his travel documents, and return him to the U.S. The agency must provide an update to the court within three days. DHS has the option to appeal this decision within 30 days.

Soliman’s Deportation and Detention

Ahmed Soliman, a 31-year-old Egyptian national, came to the United States at the age of four. He was deported in April 2026, even though he had protections against being sent back to Egypt. After his arrival in Equatorial Guinea, he was arrested in September. His lawyers reported that he was held without contact at a gendarmerie station after he spoke out against the conduct of security forces in the country.

Screening Requirement Before Future Transfers

The judge’s ruling does not prevent the government from attempting to remove Soliman to another country in the future. However, it mandates that officials must give him a fair opportunity to undergo a credible-fear screening before any new transfer. This safeguard is intended to ensure he has a chance to raise concerns about potential persecution or torture if he were to be sent elsewhere. The order combines the directive for his return with a condition on any subsequent removal attempts.

Context of Third-Country Removals

Soliman was one of over 40 individuals who were sent to Equatorial Guinea by the United States. These transfers were reportedly based on agreements for migrants who could not be legally sent to their intended destinations because they had received protection from persecution or torture. Reports from lawyers and human rights groups indicate that some deportees have faced physical abuse or threats at gunpoint. There have also been claims that some individuals were sent back to their home countries despite having existing protection orders.

Broader Legal Challenges to Deportation Policies

This case is part of larger legal battles concerning removals to third countries. The First Circuit Court of Appeals has previously stated that migrants should generally receive clear notice of their destination and a meaningful chance to voice concerns about persecution or torture. The Supreme Court had temporarily allowed the administration to continue these removals while the government appealed a lower court’s decision. Judge Hinderaker’s order specifically applies to Soliman’s individual case. How this order interacts with ongoing appellate cases could have implications for other individuals who have been sent to Equatorial Guinea. The next step required by the court is the administration’s update, which is due within three days.

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