A recent investigation has brought to light that officials within the US Department of Homeland Security sought and obtained court authorization to perform involuntary medical procedures on detainees participating in hunger strikes. The report alleges that between 2025 and 2026, at least 10 individuals were targeted for these interventions, which included the use of force-feeding.

According to the findings, three detainees were subjected to the procedures, while two others were likely forced to undergo similar treatment. The remaining five individuals reportedly ended their hunger strikes after being informed that medical intervention was imminent. These procedures, which involve the insertion of tubes to provide nutrition against a patient's will, are categorized by various human rights organizations as a form of torture. The government has not publicly disclosed the full extent of these actions, and the investigation highlights a lack of transparency regarding the medical protocols used on those in immigration custody.

Because this report relies on a single investigative source, there is currently no official response or counter-narrative provided by the Department of Homeland Security or the administration regarding the necessity or legality of these specific medical interventions. The report frames the actions as a significant departure from standard detention practices, emphasizing the human rights implications of the medical procedures performed on those protesting their conditions.