U.S. revokes green cards and detains Iranian propagandist Seyed Eissa Hashemi, his wife Maryam Tahmasebi, and their son ahead of deportation.
U.S. Revokes Green Cards, Detains Iranian Propagandist Family
The United States has revoked the green cards and detained the family of Seyed Eissa Hashemi, commonly known as "Screaming Mary," in an action taken ahead of their deportation. The individuals—Hashemi, his wife Maryam Tahmasebi, and their son—are currently being held by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) pending their removal.
Background and Affiliations
### Family Ties to Iranian Politics
Seyed Eissa Hashemi is the son of Masoumeh Ebtekar, a prominent figure in Iran who gained international attention as the spokeswoman for the group that stormed the U.S. Embassy in Tehran during the 1979 hostage crisis. Ebtekar later served as Vice President for Women and Family Affairs from 2017 to 2021 and was also the head of the Department of Environment twice.
### Immigration Status
The family came to the United States on a visa issued in 2014, according to the State Department. They were granted lawful permanent resident status (green card) via the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program in 2016. This program was ended by the Trump administration in December 2025.
Deportation and Controversy
### Statement from Secretary of State Marco Rubio
Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized the family's presence, stating, "Her family should never have been allowed to benefit from the extraordinary privilege of living in our country." He emphasized that America will not be home for anti-American terrorists or their families.
### Deportation Trends Under Trump Administration
This action is part of a series of deportations targeting individuals with ties to Iran. The State Department announced the detention and deportation of Hamideh Soleimani Afshar, the niece and granddaughter of deceased Iranian Revolutionary Guard Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani, along with her daughter.
Implications for U.S.-Iran Relations
### High-Stakes Talks in Islamabad
Vice President JD Vance, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Mr. Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner are scheduled to hold talks in Islamabad regarding the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran. The top priority is to open the Strait of Hormuz, which remains blocked by Iranian forces.
### Strategic Significance
The strait is a crucial maritime route for global oil trade, making its opening essential for maintaining stability in the region. The delegation's visit underscores the urgency of resolving this dispute amid a fragile two-week truce.
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