Marco Rubio Cancels Green Cards for Trio Linked to Iran
Synopsis
In a significant move, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has revoked the green cards of three Iranian nationals tied to Iran's revolutionary regime, leading to their arrest. This action underscores the administration's commitment to national security and its stance against foreign nationals affiliated with anti-American activities.
Key Takeaways
Marco Rubio has revoked the green cards of three Iranian nationals.
They are linked to Iran's revolutionary regime and are now in ICE custody.
Masoumeh Ebtekar, associated with the 1979 hostage crisis, is a key figure.
Actions reflect a broader commitment to national security.
The Diversity Immigrant Visa Program has been suspended under the current administration.
Washington, April 12 (NationPress) - US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has annulled the lawful permanent residency of three Iranian individuals believed to be linked to elements of Iran's revolutionary government, resulting in their apprehension and detention as they await deportation, according to the State Department.
Seyed Eissa Hashemi, Maryam Tahmasebi, and their child were arrested by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement after their immigration status was revoked. They are currently in custody and awaiting removal proceedings.
Hashemi is the offspring of Masoumeh Ebtekar, a notable figure connected to the 1979 US Embassy takeover in Tehran. Ebtekar acted as a spokesperson for the militants during the hostage crisis, where 52 Americans were held for a total of 444 days.
The statement revealed that Ebtekar was a "prominent propagandist" for the hostage-takers, orchestrating staged media interviews and creating what officials describe as a distorted portrayal of the treatment of the hostages. The department alleged that the hostages endured "solitary confinement, were blindfolded, starved, and faced physical and psychological torture, including beatings and mock executions."
Ebtekar subsequently advanced in Iran's political landscape, attaining senior government positions, including vice presidency from 2017 to 2021.
The three individuals arrived in the United States in 2014 on visas issued during Barack Obama's presidency. They were granted lawful permanent residency through the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program in June 2016. This program has been suspended under the current administration.
Recently, Rubio also revoked the legal status of relatives of Qasem Soleimani, a senior Iranian military figure who was killed in a US airstrike in 2020. Hamideh Afshar Soleimani and her daughter are currently in ICE custody.
The State Department has also canceled the residency of Fatemeh Ardeshir-Larijani, daughter of Ali Larijani, a former senior Iranian official, along with her husband Seyed Kalantar Motamedi. Both have already exited the United States and are prohibited from returning.
The department stated that it collaborated closely with the Department of Homeland Security and immigration enforcement agencies to execute these actions. It emphasized that the administration "will never permit America to serve as a sanctuary for foreign nationals associated with anti-American terrorist regimes."
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the gravity of the actions taken by Secretary Rubio, reflecting a stringent stance on national security. The revocation of residency for individuals with connections to contentious political figures in Iran raises important discussions about immigration policies and their impact on US relations.
NationPress
4 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the green cards revoked?
The green cards were revoked due to alleged ties of the individuals to Iran's revolutionary regime, which raised national security concerns.
What is the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program?
The Diversity Immigrant Visa Program is a US government initiative that provides visas to individuals from countries with low immigration rates to the United States.
Who is Masoumeh Ebtekar?
Masoumeh Ebtekar is a prominent Iranian political figure associated with the 1979 US Embassy hostage crisis, acting as a spokesperson for the militants.
What actions were taken against relatives of Qasem Soleimani?
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also revoked the legal status of relatives of Qasem Soleimani, placing them in ICE custody.
What does this mean for US immigration policy?
This action signals a tougher stance on immigration, especially concerning individuals linked to anti-American regimes.
