The Trump administration is moving forward with plans to deport Iranian nationals back to their home country despite ongoing security concerns following recent violent suppression of mass protests, according to revelations from the National Iranian American Council (NIAC). This would mark the first deportation flights to Iran since widespread uprisings rocked the nation, reaching their peak in early January before being brutally suppressed with thousands reported killed.
The Iranian-American advocacy organization disclosed Thursday that it had obtained information indicating the administration’s intention to resume deportation flights to Iran, following previous removal operations conducted in September and December. NIAC President Jamal Abdi expressed grave concern over the decision, stating: “The same administration that promised Iranians that ‘help is on the way’ amid a deadly crackdown is now forcibly sending Iranians back into danger.”
According to Iranian diplomat Abolfazl Mehrabadi, who represents Tehran’s interests in the United States, approximately 40 Iranian nationals are scheduled for deportation. The individuals are expected to depart from an airport in Phoenix, Arizona, according to statements made to Iran’s official IRNA news agency.
The development comes amid complex diplomatic tensions between Washington and Tehran. President Trump had previously threatened military action against Iran in response to the government’s violent crackdown on protesters, though those threats appeared to diminish after Tehran reportedly suspended planned executions.
Current reports indicate that at least two men subject to deportation orders remain detained at an immigration facility in Arizona, with legal efforts to prevent their removal still underway. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has not immediately responded to media inquiries regarding the planned deportations, leaving many questions unanswered about the timing and rationale behind this controversial decision.