Fact Check: "11 Iranian nationals, including Karimi, were arrested by ICE in a single operation."
What We Know
On June 22, 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested 11 Iranian nationals who were in the United States illegally. This operation was part of a broader effort by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to address concerns about potential terrorist activities linked to Iranian nationals in the U.S. Among those arrested was Ribvar Karimi, who had served as an Iranian Army sniper from 2018 to 2021 and entered the U.S. on a K-1 visa in October 2024 (Newsweek, NBC News).
The arrests were made in various locations, including Alabama and Texas, and included individuals with criminal records or suspected ties to terrorism. For instance, one of the arrested individuals, Mehran Makari Saheli, had alleged connections to Hezbollah and was previously convicted of firearm possession (Newsweek, NBC News). The operation reflects ICE's commitment to removing individuals who pose a threat to national security (DHS).
Analysis
The claim that "11 Iranian nationals, including Karimi, were arrested by ICE in a single operation" is supported by multiple credible sources. The DHS confirmed the arrests, detailing the backgrounds of the individuals involved and the reasons for their detentions (DHS). Newsweek and NBC News also provided detailed accounts of the arrests, including the identities and histories of several of the detainees, which lends credibility to the claim (Newsweek, NBC News).
The sources reporting on this incident are reputable and have a history of covering immigration and national security issues. Newsweek has a dedicated team focusing on immigration and border security, while NBC News is a well-established news organization known for its investigative journalism. Both outlets have provided thorough coverage of the arrests, including specific details about the individuals involved, which enhances the reliability of their reports.
However, it is important to note that while the operation was framed within the context of national security concerns, the potential for bias exists in how such operations are reported, particularly in the context of immigration and terrorism. The framing of Iranian nationals as potential threats can evoke strong reactions and may influence public perception (NBC News).
Conclusion
The claim that "11 Iranian nationals, including Karimi, were arrested by ICE in a single operation" is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that ICE conducted an operation resulting in the arrest of 11 Iranian nationals, including Ribvar Karimi, who had a military background and was in the U.S. illegally. The operation was part of a broader initiative to address national security concerns.
