Iran Condemns US Deportation of Iranian Refugees to Panama
Iran has condemned the US deportation of Iranian refugees to Panama, claiming the process lacked proper notification and legal representation. The Iranian authorities emphasized that asylum-seeking is not a crime under Iranian law and are committed to assisting the deported individuals. This deportation is part of a broader trend attributed to stricter US immigration policies under the previous administration.
The Iranian Interests Section in Washington has condemned the recent deportation of Iranian refugees from the United States to Panama, announcing that this process occurred without the knowledge or involvement of Iranian authorities. The statement detailed that, under stricter US immigration policies, individuals lacking valid visas or legal residency are being summarily deported without due process.
According to the Iranian office, the affected nationals were detained and deported to Panama without prior notification to Iranian officials. Efforts were reportedly made in conjunction with the Iranian Embassy in Colombia, as well as specialized legal assistance, to defend the deported individuals’ rights during this process.
Furthermore, Iranian law maintains that seeking asylum in a third country is not considered a crime, indicating that Iran is open to its citizens. This deportation underscores a broader trend within the immigration policies instituted during the tenure of former President Donald Trump, which included the transfer of various migrants to Panama on a US military aircraft, with 119 individuals onboard.
A spokesperson from the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the treatment of Iranian citizens, emphasizing their commitment to safeguarding their rights. Consequently, the ministry has directed Iran’s Interests Section in Washington and diplomatic missions throughout South America to extend all possible assistance to those deported.
The Iranian government has expressed disapproval of the US decision to deport Iranian refugees to Panama without adequate notification or consideration of their rights. As stated by Iranian officials, this reflects a troubling trend in US immigration policies that disregards the legal rights of those seeking asylum. Ongoing efforts will aim to support the deported individuals while highlighting the principle that seeking asylum is not an offense under Iranian law.
Original Source: shafaq.com
