In brief
In an unprecedented move, the US has begun deporting 120 Iranian nationals, marking a significant step in its immigration policy under President Trump's administration. Iranian officials confirm that many of those deported entered the US illegally, primarily through Mexico. The deportation has stirred controversy, especially as some of the individuals reportedly held valid US residency permits. This operation represents a rare instance of cooperation between Iran and the US, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations.
The US government has confirmed the deportation of 120 Iranian nationals, a process being facilitated as part of a deal struck with Tehran. Iranian foreign ministry official Hossein Noushabadi reported that those being deported, mostly individuals who entered the US illegally, are expected to return home within a couple of days.
According to Noushabadi, the individuals are being flown back to Iran via Qatar, highlighting the increasing numbers of Iranians seeking refuge in the United States from alleged persecution at home. Notably, some deportees reportedly held valid residency permits, casting questions on their treatment under US immigration law.
In response to inquiries regarding the deportation operations, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson reiterated the administration’s commitment to executing a significant mass deportation initiative. As part of ongoing diplomatic interactions, Iran has reportedly been communicating through its US Interests Section located at the Pakistani embassy in Tehran regarding the repatriation of their citizens.
Despite long-standing tensions between the two nations, this agreement reflects a rare moment of cooperation. Iran anticipates approximately 400 more nationals to be deported in future flights as part of this bilateral arrangement.
Critics argue that such deportations could expose migrants to dangers back home, particularly given Iran’s contentious human rights record. As the Trump administration moves forward with its immigration strategy, the ramifications of these deportations continue to spark debate among human rights advocates and legal experts.
This development comes against the backdrop of Trump’s broader immigration policy, which aims to reduce the number of illegal immigrants in the country significantly, a promise he has reiterated throughout his tenure.
