Archive · 23 Jul 2025
Former Afghan Interpreter Detained by ICE After Assisting U.S. Military
Imagine a person from Afghanistan who helped the US military.
They were allowed to come to the United States legally.
One day, while getting his green card, ICE agents arrested him and took him away.
The government says they are investigating him for something serious, but his lawyer says he has done nothing wrong.
Some politicians and veterans are trying to help him get released because he helped the US military in the past.
An Afghan who worked for the U.S. military was detained by ICE agents.
The man was arrested after an appointment related to his green card application.
DHS stated he entered the U.S. in October 2024 and is under investigation for a serious criminal allegation.
The man's attorney said he has no criminal history.
Lawmakers and advocates are fighting for his release.
- Who
- An Afghan interpreter, identified as Zia, and ICE agents.
- What
- An Afghan interpreter who aided the U.S. military was detained by ICE agents.
- When
- After an appointment related to his green card application.
- Where
- Connecticut, but held out of state.
- Why
- The reason for the detention is disputed; DHS cites a 'serious criminal allegation,' while the man's attorney denies any wrongdoing.
Advocates and Lawmakers
Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
Detention Justification
Advocates and Lawmakers
They believe the detention is a violation of basic decency and that the U.S. should honor its commitment to those who assisted the military.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
DHS has not provided a public statement on this viewpoint.
Criminal Allegations
Advocates and Lawmakers
Zia's attorney states he has no criminal record and entered the U.S. legally.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
DHS claims he is under investigation for a "serious criminal allegation."
- Name
- Zia (identified by members of Congress)
- Profession
- Afghan interpreter for the U.S. military
- Detaining Agency
- ICE
- Legal Status
- Legally in the U.S.
- Entered U.S.
- October 8, 2024
- Reason for Detention (DHS)
- Serious criminal allegation
- Attorney's Response
- Denies any criminal history