An Afghan man who legally entered the U.S. after assisting American forces during the war in Afghanistan has been detained by immigration authorities, triggering widespread criticism from lawmakers and human rights advocates.
Identified only as Zia for his and his family’s safety, the former U.S. military interpreter was arrested by armed, masked ICE agents in Connecticut following an appointment related to his green card application. He was reportedly transported out of state and remains in federal custody, despite a judge issuing a temporary stay on his deportation.
Lawmakers Call Detention an Outrage
Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut condemned the arrest as a betrayal of American values.
“What happened to him is the worst kind of abhorrent violation of basic decency,” Blumenthal said. “He risked his life to support our troops and uphold democratic values.”
Blumenthal, along with Representatives Jahana Hayes (Zia’s district in Connecticut) and Bill Keating (whose district includes the Massachusetts facility where Zia is being held), pledged to fight for his release.
Legal Status Under Question
Zia came to the U.S. on October 8, 2024, through humanitarian parole—a legal entry pathway for individuals facing urgent threats. His attorney, Lauren Petersen, said he was admitted due to credible threats from the Taliban and has no criminal history.
However, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) claimed he is under investigation for a “serious criminal allegation,” though they provided no specific details.
“All of his claims will be heard by a judge,” DHS stated. “Any Afghan who fears persecution is able to request relief.”
Petersen pushed back, saying she had no knowledge of any criminal allegations and emphasized Zia’s full legal compliance.
Broader Concerns About Afghan Allies
Zia’s detention is not an isolated case. Shawn VanDiver, founder of the advocacy group #AfghanEvac, said at least two other Afghans who assisted the U.S. military have also been detained by ICE.
“It’s about whether this country keeps its promise to those who risked everything,” VanDiver said.
Over 70,000 Afghans were relocated to the U.S. under President Biden’s Operation Allies Welcome after the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. But since taking office in January, President Donald Trump has launched an aggressive immigration crackdown, including efforts to roll back protections for Afghans already in the country.
As of now, Zia remains in detention while his case awaits judicial review. Advocates warn the outcome will send a powerful message about how the U.S. treats those who risked their lives to support its mission abroad.
