Washington, D.C. – The National Iranian American Council (NIAC) strongly condemns the Trump administration’s newly announced actions targeting U.S. green card holders and asylum applications for individuals from countries targeted under the June travel ban, including Iran. These sweeping measures represent a dangerous escalation of discriminatory immigration policy and threaten to upend the lives of tens of thousands of families.
“This policy is clear discrimination, not security,” said Jamal Abdi, President of the National Iranian American Council. “By threatening American green card holders and halting all immigration processes based on where you were born, the administration is inflicting collective punishment on entire communities. These actions are unlawful, cruel, and designed to spread fear.”
NIAC has published a detailed community FAQ on the policy and is actively exploring litigation to challenge the legality of these actions. Individuals with pending green card, citizenship, or asylum applications that have been halted are encouraged to submit their information through NIAC’s confidential litigation intake form so the organization can assess potential legal action on their behalf.
“These actions will cause profound harm to longtime U.S. residents, families seeking reunification, and individuals fleeing persecution,” said Abdi. “Lawful permanent residents nearing naturalization now face their futures being thrown into sudden chaos. Asylum seekers escaping political and religious repression are being turned away from safety. Families with spouses awaiting green cards are at risk of prolonged or indefinite separation.”
The announcement comes amid already rampant and arbitrary detention and deportation of Iranian nationals. The level of anguish and insecurity this will cause – on top of existing enforcement abuses – cannot be overstated.
“The administration is once again trying to divide people into ‘good’ and ‘bad’ immigrants to justify cruelty,” Abdi said. “We reject that lie. Every person deserves dignity, due process, and the chance to build a safe life.
NIAC urges community members to visit its Travel Ban and Immigrant Justice Center, which houses legal resources, know-your-rights guidance, and up-to-date information for individuals navigating deportation, the travel ban and other threats to safety.
NIAC will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide real-time legal updates, analysis, and resources to the community.