US Deports 120 Iranians Amid Immigration Crackdown
TEHRAN, Iran - The United States has begun deporting 120 Iranian nationals as part of President Donald Trump's crackdown on immigration, according to the Iranian foreign ministry.
The deportation operation, which began on Wednesday, involves flying the individuals from the US via Qatar. Most of those being deported had entered the country illegally through Mexico, said Hossein Noushabadi, an official at Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Noushabadi told Tasnim state news agency that some of those being deported held valid US residency permits and were asked for their consent before returning to Iran. He urged the US government to respect the rights of Iranian migrants under international law.
The move comes as part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to carry out mass deportations of undocumented immigrants, said White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson in an interview with the BBC. "The Trump administration is committed to fulfilling President Trump's promise to carry out the largest mass deportation operation of illegal aliens in history," she stated.
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in Iranians entering the US, many of whom fear persecution at home. The Iranian government has expressed concerns about the treatment of its citizens abroad and has called for greater cooperation with other countries on migration issues.
The deportation operation has sparked debate among human rights groups and international organizations. "We are concerned about the impact of this move on the lives of these individuals and their families," said a spokesperson for Amnesty International in Tehran.
As the deportations continue, Iranian officials are urging the US government to reconsider its policies on immigration and to respect the rights of Iranian migrants under international law. The situation remains fluid, with further developments expected in the coming days.
Background:
The number of Iranians entering the US has increased significantly in recent years, according to official statistics. Many of these individuals have fled persecution or violence at home, while others are seeking economic opportunities abroad.
International Perspective:
The deportation operation has sparked concerns among human rights groups and international organizations about the treatment of migrants and refugees. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has called on governments to respect the rights of asylum seekers and refugees under international law.
Next Developments:
The situation remains fluid, with further developments expected in the coming days. Iranian officials are urging the US government to reconsider its policies on immigration and to respect the rights of Iranian migrants under international law.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
