US arrests relatives of Qasem Soleimani, revokes legal residency

US authorities have detained two relatives of former Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani and revoked their permanent legal residency, in a move announced by the US Department of State. The decision comes amid allegations that the individuals publicly supported the Iranian government and engaged in activities deemed supportive of hostile entities.

According to an official statement, the individuals—identified as Hamideh Soleimani Afshar and her daughter—were taken into custody by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following the cancellation of their legal status. The action was ordered by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who stated that the administration would not allow foreign nationals who express support for groups considered adversarial to US interests to maintain residency in the country.

The State Department alleged that Hamida Soleimani Afshar had publicly expressed support for the Iranian regime, including praising leadership figures and condemning the United States. Authorities also claimed she voiced approval of activities linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which the US has designated as a terrorist organization.

Officials further emphasized that the decision reflects a broader policy stance aimed at monitoring and acting against individuals suspected of endorsing or promoting organizations considered threats to national security. Following the revocation of their residency status, both individuals are currently in detention and are expected to face deportation proceedings.

The move underscores ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran, particularly in the context of security concerns and geopolitical disagreements that have persisted for years, especially since the killing of Qasem Soleimani in a US drone strike in Iraq in 2020.