Iran says 120 of its nationals are being deported from the US, a move linked to President Trump's stringent immigration policies. The Iranian foreign ministry confirmed the individuals would return within the next few days, with many having entered the US unlawfully, primarily through Mexico.
In recent years, there has been a rise in Iranians seeking asylum in the US, fleeing potential persecution back home. White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson emphasized the Trump administration’s commitment to a broad deportation agenda, aiming for significant reductions in illegal immigration.
Amid discussions of a structured return of Iranian nationals, some deportees reportedly held valid US residency, prompting Iranian officials to urge protection of their rights under international law. This agreement is deemed a rare cooperative effort between the US and Iran, who lack formal diplomatic relations.
Final arrangements for this first deportation flight are managed through Iran’s US Interests Section at the Pakistani embassy in Tehran, with expectations that up to 400 Iranians may eventually be returned. This initiative underscores the complex nature of migration and human rights amidst political negotiations.
Concerns regarding the treatment of deportees upon their return are prevalent, given Iran's controversial human rights record. As the situation unfolds, organizations are closely monitoring the implications for those impacted.