New emails show that U.S. immigration officials worked with Iran to deport Iranians in 2025, despite tensions between the two countries. These emails were released on August 18, 2026.
The messages detail how ICE and Iranian officials arranged flights to deport over 100 Iranians in September, December 2025, and January 2026. Iranian officials could influence who was deported, even making last-minute changes before the flights. For example, one ICE official wrote, “Per request from the Iran Embassy, I added a few cases.” Another noted meeting with the Iranian Embassy director to amend deportation lists.
Despite ongoing conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran in June 2025, ICE prioritized deportations. Emails reveal coordination was high, even as Iranians fled their country during the war. Human rights groups criticize deporting people to Iran, where minorities and dissidents face persecution. The Department of Homeland Security did not comment when asked.
It’s unclear how often U.S. officials directly contacted Iranian officials. Sometimes they communicated through Qatar, which helped arrange flights. Other times, emails mention meetings with Iranian embassy officials.
The emails show pressure from the Trump administration to deport Iranians, even during the conflict. ICE’s acting director called it a priority, and officials were urged to develop a plan quickly. Some deported individuals included asylum seekers, and one person was mistakenly allowed on the flight.
This collaboration highlights a shift from decades of welcoming Iranian exiles in the U.S., raising concerns about human rights violations. The lawsuit alleges ICE shared confidential information with Iran, which the government denies.