Afghan Interpreter Detained by ICE Amid Crackdown

Zia, an Afghan interpreter who aided U.S. military forces and legally entered the United States in October 2024 under humanitarian parole with an approved Special Immigrant Visa, was detained by armed ICE agents outside a green card appointment in Connecticut. Following his arrest, Zia received an expedited removal order and was transferred to detention in Massachusetts, prompting outrage from Democratic lawmakers and human rights advocates. The Department of Homeland Security claims he is under investigation for a serious criminal allegation, but his attorney and supporters argue that he has no criminal record and faces danger from the Taliban if deported. A judge has temporarily stayed his deportation, yet Zia remains detained. The case illustrates the Trump administration's intensified immigration crackdown and policy changes that have put thousands of U.S.-affiliated Afghans at risk. Lawmakers are calling for his release, citing broken promises to wartime partners and concerns for U.S. credibility.