Uncertain Future for Iranian Asylum Seekers Amid U.S.-Israeli Conflict

Ali and Adel, two gay Iranian men, fled Iran due to severe persecution related to their sexual orientation, facing charges that could lead to execution. They initially sought refuge in Turkey before traveling through Central America to reach the United States, arriving in January 2025. Their journey reflects the dire circumstances faced by LGBTQ individuals in Iran, where homosexuality is punishable by death.

Since their arrival, Ali and Adel have been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under poor conditions, which have reportedly included mistreatment by guards. Rebekah Wolf, director of the Immigration Justice Campaign at the American Immigration Council, highlighted that the men have faced significant challenges in their asylum process, including a lack of legal representation during their initial hearings. Both men had their asylum applications rejected, but they are currently appealing these decisions.

The ongoing U.S.-Israeli war with Iran has introduced further uncertainty regarding their potential deportation. Wolf noted that Ali and Adel have come close to being deported to Iran on three occasions prior to the conflict. The fear of being sent back to a country where they could face execution adds to their mental distress. Although there appears to be a pause in deportations to Iran since the war began, no official confirmation has been provided by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

DHS stated that Ali and Adel received full due process and have been issued final orders of removal. However, they did not address the specific conditions of their detention or confirm any pause in deportations. Wolf expressed concern that the men’s continued presence in the U.S. during the conflict could exacerbate their situation if deported, as individuals perceived to be connected to the U.S. may face heightened scrutiny and punishment in Iran.

Critics, including Wolf, have pointed out the lack of accountability for ICE officials, who reportedly exhibit impunity in their treatment of detainees. The absence of legal counsel for Ali and Adel during critical stages of their asylum process has been identified as a significant factor contributing to their precarious situation.

• “They are facing execution by a regime that we believe should not be in power.” — Rebekah Wolf, Director, Immigration Justice Campaign

• “The mental stress of constantly being in fear of being removed to a place that wants to execute them, combined with the conditions of detention, are really, really difficult for them.” — Rebekah Wolf

• “We know that in times of conflict, in countries like Iran, anyone who is seen as at all connected to the 'enemy' is seen with suspicion, and that, often, in and of itself, is a basis for punishment or execution,” — Rebekah Wolf

The cases of Ali and Adel underscore the complexities and dangers faced by asylum seekers from Iran, particularly in the context of escalating geopolitical tensions. As their legal battles continue, the implications of U.S. foreign policy and domestic immigration practices remain critical to their future safety and well-being.