U.S. authorities recently arrested two Iranian-origin nationals, Hamideh Soleimani Afshar and her daughter Sarinasadat Hosseiny, accusing them of ties to the Iranian regime and spreading anti-American propaganda.
According to the U.S. Department of State, both have had their permanent residency permits ("Green Cards") revoked, as they are suspected of publicly supporting designated terrorist structures and disseminating messages in favor of the Iranian regime.
American officials claim that Afshar, during her stay in the United States, responded positively to attacks against U.S. forces in the Middle East and praised Iranian leadership, also using harsh rhetoric against the U.S.
The 47-year-old initially entered the U.S. in 2015 on a tourist visa, later obtaining asylum in 2019 and permanent status in 2021. Her daughter received her residency documents in 2023. According to authorities, Afshar traveled to Iran several times even after receiving her "Green Card."
Meanwhile, reports indicate that they lived a luxurious life in Los Angeles, showcasing expensive cars and trips to various destinations on social media.
The arrest was carried out by immigration agents, while authorities emphasize that residency status in the U.S. is not permanent and can be revoked if considered a threat to national security.
There has also been a reaction from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who stated that the U.S. will not tolerate individuals who support hostile regimes within its territory.
The incident occurs amid a tense climate between the U.S. and Iran, following the assassination of General Qasem Soleimani in 2020 during a drone strike ordered by President Donald Trump near Baghdad airport.