ICE Detains Soleimani’s Niece in Los Angeles Following Green Card Revocation by Rubio
Title: U.S. Detains Relatives of Slain Iranian Commander Amid Escalating Tensions
LOS ANGELES – In a significant move, federal agents arrested Hamideh Soleimani Afshar, the niece of the late Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, along with her daughter in Los Angeles on Friday, following the revocation of their green cards. This development underscores a broader strategy by the Trump administration to target individuals linked to hostile foreign regimes.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) asserts that Afshar’s legal status was terminated due to her vocal support for the Iranian government, highlighted by her social media presence celebrating violence against U.S. military personnel. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the decision, labeling her an “outspoken supporter” of terrorism.
DHS records reveal that Afshar entered the United States on a tourist visa in 2015 and obtained her green card in 2021. However, her recent application for naturalization drew scrutiny as it disclosed multiple trips to Iran, which officials argue invalidate her asylum claim made in 2019.
"Celebrating attacks on Americans while leading a lavish lifestyle in Los Angeles is unacceptable," Rubio stated, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to protecting U.S. interests. A DHS spokesperson reiterated, “It is a privilege to hold a green card,” and warned that the administration would act against individuals posing a threat.
This incident follows a broader trend of visa revocations aimed at individuals who contribute to anti-American propaganda from within the country. Afshar and her daughter are currently in ICE custody, pending formal removal proceedings. This crackdown is part of an increasing effort to enforce U.S. immigration policies against individuals with connections to the Iranian regime.
The arrest of Afshar and her daughter adds to the administration’s recent actions, which include the deportation of Fatemeh Ardeshir-Larijani. As tensions continue to rise in the region, the implications of such arrests reflect a decisive stance against those perceived to support adversarial foreign entities.
Afshar’s husband has also been barred from entering the United States, further illustrating the administration’s focus on maintaining national security amid ongoing geopolitical complexities.
