Iran says fifty five of its citizens deported from the United States will return home in the coming days marking the second such deportation under President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown.
In September the U.S. identified about 400 Iranians for deportation with the first flight carrying 120 people to Tehran via Qatar. Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei described the latest transfers as politically motivated accusing Washington of pursuing “anti migrant policies that are against international law.”
The deportations come amid strained relations over Iran’s nuclear program. Baghaei noted that despite tensions coordination on the deportations took place through intermediaries and the countries’ interest protection offices since there is no direct line of communication between Tehran and Washington.
Baghaei also criticized the U.S. for limiting visas for Iran’s soccer delegation attending the World Cup draw in Washington. While nine visas were requested only four were granted including one for coach Ardeshir Amir Ghalenoei.
The incident highlights the ongoing friction between the two nations even as rare moments of coordination emerge in sensitive matters like deportations.
