Summary: Nearly 300 migrants deported from the US, including Indians, Iranians, and Afghans, are being housed in a Panama hotel, with many pleading for help amid fears of returning to their home countries.
In a tense and evolving situation, nearly 300 individuals deported from the United States—hailing from India, Iran, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China—are currently being housed in a hotel in Panama. These migrants, deported under former US President Donald Trump’s administration, are receiving medical attention and food as part of a migration agreement between the US and Panama, according to Panama’s Security Minister, Frank Abrego.
Deportees Cry for Help, Fear Returning Home
While arrangements are being made for their return to their respective countries, more than 40% of the deportees are refusing to go back, citing safety concerns. Some individuals have been seen holding up desperate messages from their hotel windows, with signs reading “Help” and “We are not safe in our country.”
Panama has been serving as a transit country for deportees, as the US faces logistical challenges in deporting individuals directly to certain nations. In addition to Panama, Costa Rica is also expected to receive a similar flight of third-country deportees in the coming days.
Complex Repatriation Efforts Underway
According to Abrego, of the 299 deportees, 171 have agreed to return to their home countries with assistance from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UN Refugee Agency. However, 128 individuals remain in limbo, with authorities actively seeking alternative destinations for them in third countries.
One Irish national among the deportees has already returned home, while those who refuse repatriation will be temporarily held in a remote facility in Panama’s Darien province.
Panama’s Role as a “Bridge” for US Deportees
The US has fully funded the operation, as per a migration agreement between both nations. This deal was announced earlier this month following a visit by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. However, Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino has come under political pressure, particularly after Trump’s recent remarks about potentially retaking control of the Panama Canal, adding further complexity to the situation.
Awaiting Further Developments
The Panamanian Ombudsman’s Office is expected to release additional updates on the plight of the deportees, as international authorities continue working to address the humanitarian and diplomatic challenges posed by their uncertain future.
