U.S. Deports Alleged Gang Members to El Salvador Despite Legal Challenges

The U.S. government has deported over 200 alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua to El Salvador, invoking wartime authorities under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. The move has sparked controversy, with civil rights groups challenging the legality of the deportations.  

El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele confirmed the arrival of the deportees, who were transferred to a maximum-security facility. The U.S. also deported several high-ranking members of the MS-13 gang as part of the operation.  

Critics argue that the Alien Enemies Act was not intended for use in peacetime and that the deportations violate due process rights. A federal judge has issued a temporary suspension of the order, but the Trump administration plans to appeal the ruling.  

Federal Reserve Holds Firm on Interest Rates Amid Economic Uncertainty

The Federal Reserve's Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) began its two-day meeting today, with analysts predicting no immediate changes to interest rates. Despite weaker economic data in recent months, the Fed is expected to maintain its cautious approach due to global uncertainties.  

Chair Jerome Powell has emphasized the importance of monitoring inflation and employment trends before making any adjustments. February's Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI) showed a declining trend, but concerns about tariffs and trade policies continue to weigh on the economy.  

The Fed's decision, along with its updated economic projections, will be announced tomorrow. Investors are particularly interested in the "dot plot," which outlines policymakers' expectations for future rate changes.  

Sudan Launches Case Against UAE at World Court

Sudan has filed a case against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), accusing the UAE of complicity in alleged genocide against the Masalit ethnic group in West Darfur. The complaint centers on the actions of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias, which Sudan alleges have committed acts of genocide, murder, theft, rape, forcible displacement, and other human rights violations. Sudan claims these acts were carried out with the direct support of the UAE, including the supply of weapons, artillery, ammunition, drones, and other military equipment.

Sudan's case is based on Article 36, paragraph 1, of the ICJ Statute and Article IX of the Genocide Convention, to which both countries are signatories. The UAE, however, made a reservation upon acceding to the Genocide Convention, seeking to exclude disputes under the Convention from the ICJ’s jurisdiction. Sudan argues this reservation is invalid as it is incompatible with the Convention’s object and purpose.

Alongside the lawsuit, Sudan has requested the ICJ impose provisional measures to protect the Masalit population, including an order for the UAE to cease all support for the RSF and to take steps to prevent further acts of genocide. The ICJ has acknowledged the urgency of the situation and will prioritize Sudan’s request for provisional measures. The case highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region and the ongoing disputes between Sudan and the UAE.