In the past week, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has apprehended 130 Iranian nationals nationwide, raising the total number of Iranian nationals in ICE custody to 670. These arrests occur amidst increased security concerns following recent U.S. military actions against Iran’s nuclear sites. Federal authorities and national security analysts have cautioned about possible threats from sleeper cells or individuals seeking revenge, as reported by Fox News.
The situation is further complicated by the ongoing border crisis, which has resulted in millions of illegal entries during the Biden administration. Former border enforcement officials contend that the absence of adequate vetting has heightened national security risks. ICE sources have confirmed that some of those detained have criminal histories related to drug offenses, weapons, and domestic violence.
A notable arrest involves Ribvar Karimi, a former sniper in the Iranian military, who entered the U.S. on a K-1 visa designed for individuals intending to marry American citizens. Karimi did not alter his visa status, rendering him subject to deportation. He was apprehended in Locust, Alabama, while in possession of identification linking him to the Iranian military.
Another individual, Mehran Makari Sahel, was arrested in St. Paul, Minnesota. He is a former member of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and acknowledged his connections with Hezbollah. His arrest was part of a broader ICE operation aimed at sanctuary cities across eight states.
DHS officials have indicated that they are actively pursuing suspected terrorists and violent extremists who have entered the U.S. unlawfully. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that the agency is taking proactive measures to implement President Trump’s directive to secure the homeland, without waiting for terrorist acts to necessitate action.
A recent ruling by the Supreme Court permits deportations to third-party nations, which could impact individuals who are arrested if diplomatic ties with Iran obstruct direct repatriation. This legal change may accelerate removals in situations where it is diplomatically or logistically challenging to return individuals directly to Iran.
Although former President Trump has announced a cease-fire with Iran, U.S. antiterrorism agencies are still on high alert. Authorities are actively monitoring for any domestic threats associated with Iranian operatives, as enforcement actions increase in light of escalating national security issues.
