Afghan Woman Deported as First Case in Use of Alien Terrorist Removal Court

An Afghan woman accused of involvement in an ISIS-inspired mass shooting plot for Election Day 2024 has been deported to her home country. This marks the first application of the U.S. Alien Terrorist Removal Court (ATRC) established three decades ago by Congress.

Nizira Haji Zada, aged 47, acknowledged to the ATRC her status as an “alien terrorist.” Without appealing, she returned to Afghanistan, as confirmed by the Department of Justice (DOJ). “This landmark case is a victory for national security,” stated Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Those who support terrorism are not welcome in the United States, and this case illustrates our commitment to using all available measures to safeguard the nation.”

Zada’s son, Abdullah Haji Zada, and her son-in-law, Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, faced prior convictions for their involvement in the planned attack. They were apprehended in October 2024 following an undercover FBI operation where they acquired firearms. They admitted to purchasing AK-47s for a mass shooting in ISIS’s name. The son received a 15-year prison sentence, while Tawhedi awaits his sentencing.

Previously residing in Fort Worth, Texas, Zada cannot reenter the U.S. An order of removal was issued by the court on August 20. FBI Director Kash Patel emphasized Zada’s deportation as a critical measure in safeguarding the U.S. from terrorism. “She supported a plot by ISIS-sympathizing members and now faces the repercussions,” he stated. “Our agencies remain vigilant against terrorism, employing all necessary tools.”

The family reportedly attempted to fundraise by selling belongings and purchased one-way tickets to Kabul, except for Zada’s son and Tawhedi. Her attorneys argue against the court’s legitimacy and due process, suggesting the Alien Terrorist Removal Court might be challenged constitutionally soon.

Despite Congress granting court powers in 1996, this instance is the first application. The Associated Press contributed to the report.