Earlier deportation efforts included sending migrants to various countries in Africa, with South Sudan initially agreeing to accept deportees before the situation changed. Nigeria has also resisted US pressure to accept specific deportees.

Donald Trump's strong stance on immigration has become a significant component of his administration, impacting policies related to refugees, student visas, and work permits. The administration has resumed workplace raids to enforce immigration laws, marking a departure from the approach of previous administrations.

The flight to Eswatini, noted as a potential destination for US deportations, was not publicly commented on by Eswatini officials. The nation, previously known as Swaziland, has been ruled by King Mswati III since 1986 and is one of just a few absolute monarchies in the world.

Following a recent Supreme Court ruling, the Trump administration has gained the legal backing to deport migrants to countries other than their origins, stirring further discussions around human rights and diplomatic relations. In addition to Eswatini, nations like Rwanda, Benin, and Angola are being considered for future deportation flights, while deportations to El Salvador and Costa Rica have already occurred.