A former Iranian army sharpshooter living illegally in Alabama was among 11 Iranian nationals arrested in a nationwide immigration enforcement operation. Ribvar Karimi, who served in Iran’s military before entering the U.S. on a marriage visa, was taken into custody after overstaying his legal status.
The arrests come as U.S. officials remain on high alert for potential Iranian retaliation after recent military strikes. While no active terror plots have been uncovered, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem warned local law enforcement to stay vigilant regarding possible sleeper cells.
Karimi’s case highlights ongoing concerns about visa overstays. He arrived legally but failed to adjust his immigration status as required. Authorities are still investigating who sponsored his K-1 fiancé visa application.
The operation also apprehended Mehran Makari Sahel in Minnesota, a former member of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard. These arrests follow reports of Iranian nationals attempting to enter Florida by boat, though their connection to current tensions remains unconfirmed.
