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DOJ Activates Alien Terrorist Removal Court After 30-Year Hiatus

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has activated the Alien Terrorist Removal Court for the first time since its establishment in 1996, marking a significant legal development.

Editorial Desk

July 19, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Washington, D.C. — The Department of Justice (DOJ) has activated the Alien Terrorist Removal Court for the first time in 30 years. Established in 1996, the court had never received a petition until this past Wednesday.

The Alien Terrorist Removal Court was created to handle cases involving non-citizens suspected of terrorist activities. Its activation signifies a shift in the DOJ’s approach to handling terrorism-related immigration cases.

This development comes amid heightened national security concerns — and increased scrutiny of immigration policies. The court’s role is to provide a specialized forum for adjudicating these complex cases, ensuring that national security interests are balanced with due process rights.

Further details on the specific case that prompted the court’s activation remain undisclosed. The DOJ hasn’t released any information about the individual or individuals involved in the proceedings.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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