Kilmar Abrego Garcia was granted 'withholding of removal' in 2019, which is a form of protection that prevents the U.S. government from deporting individuals to countries where they are likely to face persecution or torture. This protection was based on credible fears of gang violence in El Salvador, which he had proven during his immigration proceedings.

The Trump administration's admission of error indicates a recognition of the legal missteps involved in Garcia's deportation, which could impact ongoing legal battles over immigration practices and due process rights. It raises questions about accountability and the government's obligations to rectify such mistakes, especially concerning individuals with legal protections against deportation.

The administration contends that U.S. courts lack jurisdiction over Garcia's case now that he is no longer in U.S. custody, arguing that he poses a potential danger due to alleged gang ties, despite his attorneys asserting there is no evidence for these claims.

Garcia's family and lawyers have filed a lawsuit seeking court orders to prevent the U.S. government from paying for his detention in El Salvador and demanding his return to the United States, emphasizing that his deportation violated his legal protections.

This case underscores significant concerns regarding due process violations in U.S. immigration policy, particularly how administrative errors can lead to severe consequences for individuals with legal protections. It also raises questions about the use of wartime powers for deportations and the treatment of immigrants within the judicial system.