Hundreds of Iranians Released Into US Amid Tensions

From 2021 to 2024, U.S. authorities apprehended over 1,500 Iranian nationals who crossed the southern border illegally, releasing 729 into the country under the Biden administration. Designated as 'special interest aliens' due to security concerns, these individuals are subject to enhanced vetting, yet the Biden administration has not disclosed how many were on terrorism watchlists, citing privacy reasons. The number of Iranian apprehensions and releases has risen significantly each year, with 797 caught and 448 released in 2024. Over two million 'gotaways' also crossed the border during this period, making the actual number of Iranian entrants uncertain. Recent American strikes on Iranian nuclear sites have heightened U.S.-Iran tensions. Security officials have warned of an increased threat environment, and U.S. cities remain on alert for possible terror or cyber attacks.