The Trump administration has deported approximately a dozen Iranians back to Iran, marking the first such deportation flight since the brutal crackdown on anti-government protests began in late December. This move raises significant concerns for the safety of deportees, particularly those who fear persecution or execution upon return.
On Sunday, a deportation flight carried about 14 Iranians from the United States to Iran, as reported by CNN and corroborated by Reuters. This event represents the first known deportation of Iranians since widespread protests erupted across Iran in late December, where thousands have been killed and tens of thousands arrested in a severe government crackdown. The protests were triggered by economic grievances and demands for political freedom, leading to a violent response from Iranian authorities.
President Donald Trump has previously threatened retaliation against Iran if it executes protesters involved in the demonstrations. While he has claimed willingness to engage with Tehran, the threat of military action remains on the table. The deportation flight underscores the administration’s commitment to a hardline immigration policy, aiming for what officials describe as the largest mass deportation operation of criminal illegal aliens in history.
The individuals deported had executable final orders from federal judges, meaning their removal was legally mandated. However, the process faced complications; some Iranians scheduled for the flight were not on board due to exposure to measles, leading to their quarantine. This provided a temporary reprieve, but they are still at risk of future deportation.
Among those affected are two gay men who sought asylum in the U.S. and now fear execution if returned to Iran, where homosexuality is punishable by death. Their lawyer, Bekah Wolf, stated that they face an “extremely high chance” of being executed. The men expressed their desperation, with one appealing directly to President Trump to allow them to stay, citing their love for the United States and the peril they face in Iran.
This deportation is part of a series under a rare agreement between Washington and Tehran, despite the lack of formal diplomatic relations. It is the third such flight, following previous deportations in September 2025. The agreement facilitates the return of Iranians with final removal orders, but it occurs amid escalating tensions and human rights concerns.
Human rights organizations report that at least 5,520 protesters have been killed since the demonstrations began, with many more arrested. The ongoing crackdown has drawn international condemnation, and the deportation of individuals to such an environment has sparked criticism from advocates and some U.S. lawmakers.
Looking ahead, sources indicate that more deportation flights to Iran are likely, as the Trump administration continues its immigration enforcement efforts. The situation highlights the complex interplay between immigration policy, international relations, and human rights, with profound implications for those caught in the crossfire.
