The federal courthouse in San Diego, a site of recent controversial immigration detentions.
The arrest of Sayed Nasar, an Afghan translator who aided U.S. military forces, has caused significant outrage in San Diego. Detained by ICE during an immigration hearing, Nasar’s case raises critical concerns about the treatment of those who supported American troops abroad. Though he complied with immigration protocols, he faces potential expedited removal attached to allegations of procedural errors. Advocates argue that this incident reflects broader issues regarding ICE’s enforcement practices and the implications for Afghan allies seeking asylum in the U.S.
San Diego – The arrest of Sayed Nasar, a 33-year-old Afghan translator who previously worked for U.S. military forces, has ignited outrage over the treatment of individuals who assisted American troops abroad. The arrest took place inside a federal courthouse on June 11, 2025, during a mandatory immigration hearing. Video footage of the incident circulating online shows U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detaining Nasar despite his compliance with immigration protocols.
Nasar legally entered the United States in 2024 using the CBP One app at the San Ysidro port of entry. He worked as a translator in Afghanistan from 2015 to 2018 and has since pursued a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) due to his assistance to U.S. military operations. His immigration status was under review during the ill-fated court appearance, where federal prosecutors aimed to dismiss his case, making him eligible for expedited removal.
During the arrest, Nasar claimed he possessed all necessary documents supporting his prior employment with the U.S. military. Despite this assertion, ICE agents apprehended him based on a warrant signed by an ICE officer rather than a judicial authority. His attorney characterized the experience as shocking and intimidating, raising concerns about the legality and justification for such actions.
Currently, Nasar is detained at the Otay Mesa Detention Center, where he faces the possibility of being held for up to three months as his asylum case is assessed. Immigration advocates have expressed deep concern regarding the implications of this incident, both for Nasar and for other Afghan allies seeking refuge in the United States. The situation is particularly alarming given that Nasar fled Afghanistan following the murder of his brother by the Taliban in 2023, leaving his family in hiding due to fear of retribution.
Advocates are troubled by ICE’s usage of the term “improvidently issued” as a rationale for Nasar’s arrest. This terminology may indicate a shift in enforcement practices that many believe could adversely affect the treatment of lawful immigrants. Moreover, the Department of Homeland Security has pointed to a reversal of previous policies regarding immigration enforcement, heightening fears among advocates regarding the potential future collaborations between the U.S. and interpreters abroad.
Nasar’s case underscores a larger trend of increasing ICE arrests occurring at courthouses, raising alarm among community organizations and veteran groups about the message such actions send to those who have cooperated with U.S. forces. Advocates maintain that the incidents illustrate the urgent need for reform in the treatment of individuals who provided critical support to military missions.
The fallout from Nasar’s detention has also extended to his family, which includes his wife and children. They learned of his arrest through social media, further stressing the emotional and psychological toll such immigration enforcement actions can have on families. Many in the community and beyond see this incident as a troubling reminder of the challenges faced by individuals seeking refuge in the U.S. after risking their lives for American military endeavors.
As concerns about Nasar’s situation grow, advocates continue to call for due process, fair treatment, and an adequate response from authorities regarding the rights of those who have been vital in supporting U.S. missions abroad. They emphasize that the handling of this case may have far-reaching consequences for future collaborations, calling attention to the necessity of maintaining trust and safety for interpreters and their families.
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