THE Trump administration may deport migrants to Libya for the first time this week, three US officials revealed, as part of a sweeping immigration crackdown that defies criticism of Libya’s treatment of detainees.

Two officials told Reuters that US military aircraft may be used for the transfers, though plans could still change.

The number and nationalities of deportees remain unclear.

Libya has faced international condemnation for “harsh and life-threatening” prison conditions and arbitrary detention, according to the US State Department.

The country is fractured between the UN-backed government in Tripoli and a rival eastern administration.

Since taking office, Donald Trump has made immigration a priority policy, with 152,000 people deported so far, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

Libya has been under consideration as a deportation destination for weeks, though it’s uncertain whether an agreement exists with Tripoli’s government.

The Supreme Court has recently halted the deportation of some Venezuelans over due process concerns.

The administration has also drawn fire for invoking the Alien Enemies Act to justify removals linked to Venezuelan gang Aragua Train, despite a declassified intelligence report finding no credible link between the gang and President Nicolas Maduro.