Afghan woman whose case was the first for a long-dormant court has been deported, officials say

PUBLISHED Sep 11, 2026, 11:41 AM ET

An Afghan woman accused of supporting an Islamic State-inspired plot has been deported from the United States following the first ever proceedings before the dormant Alien Terrorist Removal Court. Nazira Haji Zada, a forty-seven-year-old lawful permanent resident arrested in Fort Worth, Texas, waived her right to contest detention and agreed to removal, averting a complex constitutional battle. Established under the nineteen-ninety-six Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act, the specialized court had never previously heard a petition. Defense attorneys criticized the proceedings for withholding secret evidence from the defendant, arguing the system violates due process. Conversely, Attorney General Todd Blanche praised the resolution as a major victory for national security and the rule of law. Specific details concerning the timeline, timing, and destination of her removal remain undisclosed by federal authorities. The swift outcome leaves broader legal questions surrounding the court's constitutionality unresolved for future national security litigation.

By Ayesha A. | JQJO News

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 33
Right Leaning:: 8
Left Leaning:: 5
Neutral:: 20

Explain Framing

Left: Emphasizes due process concerns and constitutional challenges regarding secret evidence. Center: Reports factual developments objectively without taking positions on court legitimacy. Right: Highlights national security victory and successful enforcement of immigration laws.