Overview

• The United States has deported 299 migrants from various countries, including India, Iran, and Afghanistan, to Panama under a controversial agreement with the Panamanian government.
• The migrants are being held in a hotel in Panama City, with 171 agreeing to voluntary repatriation while others refuse due to fears of persecution in their home countries.
• Panama has denied allegations of detaining the migrants against their will, stating they are under 'temporary custody' for their protection, though they are barred from leaving the hotel.
• Some migrants have displayed messages pleading for help from hotel windows, citing unsafe conditions in their countries of origin, while reports indicate at least one suicide attempt and an escape.
• Those unwilling to return home may be transferred to a migration facility in the Darién jungle, raising further concerns from human rights groups over their treatment and legal rights.