Tue Jan 28 08:09:18 IST 2025: ## Trump’s First Week: Deportation Dispute, Tariffs, and a Controversial Gaza Plan

**Washington, D.C. –** President Donald Trump’s first week in office has been marked by aggressive action on immigration and a series of controversial proposals. A major showdown with Colombia over deportation flights resulted in a temporary resolution, while a plan to relocate Palestinians from Gaza sparked widespread condemnation.

On Sunday, a dispute erupted when Colombian President Gustavo Petro refused to accept US military flights carrying deported migrants unless the US guaranteed humane treatment. In response, President Trump threatened tariffs on all Colombian imports, a travel ban, visa cancellations, and a halt to visa processing. However, after hours of tension, Colombia reportedly agreed to resume accepting the flights, and the tariffs were put on hold. Trump allies declared the outcome a victory. The use of military aircraft for deportations is a new tactic under the Trump administration.

This incident follows a similar rejection of a US military plane carrying migrants by Mexico last week. Professor Oliver Della Costa Stuenkel warned that while Trump’s aggressive tactics might yield short-term gains, they could push Latin American countries to seek alternative partnerships.

Adding to the controversy, President Trump proposed relocating potentially millions of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip, suggesting Egypt and Jordan could absorb them. This plan was immediately rejected by Palestinians.

Domestically, Vice President JD Vance defended Trump’s executive order aiming to end birthright citizenship, despite legal challenges and the fact that many other countries offer such citizenship.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon announced that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, focusing on mutual security interests.

Looking ahead, House Republicans will hold a retreat focused on implementing the administration’s priorities, including energy, border security, and tax policy. A Senate vote on the confirmation of Scott Bessent as Treasury Secretary is also scheduled for Monday. Bessent, a Wall Street financier, was a major donor to Trump’s campaign. President Trump is expected to attend the Republican retreat at his golf resort in Miami.

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