Fort Worth, Texas – The Department of Justice announced today that Nazira Haji Zada, 47, has been removed from the United States under the authority of the Alien Terrorist Removal Court (ATRC). Zada, a permanent resident who lived in Fort Worth, admitted in court that she was a “non‑citizen terrorist” and waived her right to appeal. The court issued an order of removal on Aug. 20, and she was flown back to Afghanistan.
First use of a 30‑year‑old court
The ATRC was created by Congress in 1996 to determine whether a non‑citizen poses a terrorist threat. Zada’s case marks the first time the court has been used to actually deport a person. Attorney General Todd Blanche said the decision “is a win for national security and the rule of law,” adding that anyone who supports terrorism “should not be living in the United States.”
Family ties to an alleged ISIS plot
Zada’s son, Abdullah Haji Zada, and son‑in‑law, Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, were convicted earlier this year for their role in an alleged plot to carry out a mass shooting on Election Day 2024. Federal agents say the men purchased AK‑47 rifles from an undercover FBI operative and planned to kill dozens of voters. Abdullah received a 15‑year prison sentence; Tawhedi remains awaiting sentencing.
FBI and DOJ praise the removal
FBI Director Kash Patel called the deportation “a historic and vitally important step in our work to protect the U.S. homeland from terrorism.” He emphasized that Zada’s actions represented a betrayal of the freedoms she once enjoyed in America and that the government will continue to use every legal tool to safeguard the nation.
Defense attorneys challenge the court’s constitutionality
Zada’s lawyers argued that the ATRC violates due process because the proceedings are secret and the evidence is not disclosed to the defense. They said the court’s existence is a “plain violation of constitutional rights” and vowed to challenge the ruling in federal court.
Implications for immigration enforcement
The case underscores the Trump administration’s commitment to robust immigration enforcement and the use of all available legal mechanisms to remove individuals who pose a security threat. By employing the ATRC, the administration demonstrates its willingness to act decisively against terrorism, even when it involves permanent residents.
What this means for the community
Local officials in Fort Worth have not issued a statement, but the removal highlights the importance of vigilance in neighborhoods across Texas. Residents are reminded that law‑enforcement agencies remain alert to any signs of extremist activity and will act swiftly to protect public safety.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
