Lawmakers call for release of detained Afghan interpreter

A former interpreter for the US military faces detention after a green card appointment.

Lawmakers demand justice for Afghan interpreter detained by ICE

Lawmakers are urging the release of Zia, an Afghan interpreter who worked with US military forces, after he was detained by ICE agents during a scheduled appointment for his green card. Zia, who entered the United States legally with humanitarian parole and an approved Special Immigrant Visa, was taken by armed agents at a facility in East Hartford, Connecticut, and has since been moved to a detention center in Massachusetts. Despite his legal status, the Department of Homeland Security claims he is under investigation for a serious allegation while his attorney insists he has no criminal history. A judge has temporarily paused his removal, yet many fear he could be sent back to Afghanistan, where he may face persecution.

The troubling situation surrounding Zia reflects deeper issues within US immigration policies, particularly how they affect those who risked their lives to support American missions abroad. Lawmakers' sharp reactions demonstrate growing concerns about the treatment of Afghan allies and the message it sends to those who assisted US forces. The approach taken by ICE raises alarms about the preservation of trust and safety for individuals who have already faced dire consequences back home. If the US fails to uphold its commitments to these individuals, it not only endangers lives but may also undermine future alliances with potential allies abroad.

Highlights

A continued outcry from lawmakers suggests this issue is far from resolved.