PANAMA CITY – Nearly 300 migrants deported under U.S. President Donald Trump’s policy are being held in a hotel in Panama while awaiting repatriation to their home countries, authorities confirmed Tuesday. The migrants, who come from 10 different nations, remain in legal limbo as international agencies work to arrange their return.
Migrants Held in Panama Under U.S. Deportation Program
Panama’s Security Minister Frank Abrego stated that the country has agreed to serve as a transit hub for deported migrants as part of an agreement with the United States. The U.S. covers all costs associated with the operation, including accommodations, food, and medical care.
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Many of the migrants originate from nations where deportation directly from the U.S. is difficult, including Iran, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China. Authorities say 171 of the 299 migrants have agreed to voluntary repatriation with assistance from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the U.N. Refugee Agency.
However, approximately 128 individuals have refused to return home, citing safety concerns. Some migrants displayed messages reading “Help” and “We are not safe in our country” from their hotel windows, highlighting their fear of persecution or violence if sent back.
Panama Faces Political Pressure Over Deportation Agreement
The Panamanian government’s decision to facilitate U.S. deportations comes amid political tensions. President José Raúl Mulino announced the first deportation flight’s arrival last Thursday, shortly after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit. Mulino is also facing domestic pressure over Trump’s stance on reclaiming control of the Panama Canal.
Costa Rica is expected to receive a similar flight of deportees this week under a related agreement.
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Concerns Over Detainment Conditions and Legal Status
The situation has sparked concerns in Panama, especially after images surfaced of migrants peeking from their hotel windows, guarded by police. Although Minister Abrego denied that the migrants are “detained,” he acknowledged that they are not permitted to leave their rooms.
For those unwilling to return home, the Panamanian government plans to relocate them to a temporary facility in the Darien province, a remote area that has served as a key transit point for migrants traveling north toward the U.S.
The Panamanian Ombudsman’s Office is expected to provide further updates on the situation.
