Federal judge orders Trump administration to admit 12,000 refugees into US

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to admit 12,000 refugees into the U.S. This ruling is a significant pushback against the administration's efforts to limit refugee admissions.

The decision is part of a larger legal battle over the refugee program. This program was suspended under President Trump's executive orders.

U.S. District Judge Jamal Whitehead made this ruling after a dispute between the Justice Department and refugee resettlement agencies. They disagreed on how to interpret previous court rulings.

The Trump administration argued that only 160 refugees should be allowed entry. These refugees were scheduled to travel shortly after the January executive order halted admissions. Judge Whitehead disagreed with this interpretation.

He ruled that all refugees with confirmed travel arrangements before January 20 must be processed. This applies regardless of their travel dates.

The judge emphasized the importance of upholding statutory and constitutional law. He insisted that the administration follow court mandates.

Additionally, Judge Whitehead directed the administration to restart processing these refugee cases immediately. Those with valid medical and security clearances can enter the U.S. without delay.

The lawsuit was filed by affected refugees and nonprofit organizations. It highlighted financial struggles faced by aid groups like Integrated Refugee and Immigrant Services (IRIS) and Jewish Family Services (JFS). These organizations experienced severe funding cuts and staff layoffs due to the halt in admissions.