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Ninth Circuit Halts Land Transfer for Arizona’s Resolution Copper Mine

A late challenge from tribal and environmental plaintiffs prompted a temporary injunction focused on whether the government’s review is sufficient.

U.S. President Donald Trump gestures after welcoming Armenia's Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan to the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., August 8, 2025. REUTERS/Jessica Koscielniak/File photo
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Overview

  • The land swap needed for Rio Tinto and BHP’s Resolution Copper project was set for today before a panel issued a temporary injunction late Monday.
  • Plaintiffs argue the government must complete a comprehensive review of the mine and all related infrastructure before any transfer proceeds.
  • Their filings cite unaddressed risks including potential dam breach, pipeline failure, and contingency planning for tailings storage.
  • Resolution Copper says an 11-year NEPA process led by the U.S. Forest Service included extensive Tribal and agency consultation and produced major plan changes.
  • President Donald Trump criticized the ruling on Truth Social, saying 3,800 jobs are affected and that an expedited appeal to the Ninth Circuit will be sought.