Afghan Deported in First-Ever Use of Alien Terrorist Court

The Department of Justice (DOJ) in Washington on March 10, 2025. (Madalina Vasiliu/The Epoch Times)

Troy Myers

Troy Myers is a regional reporter based in St. Augustine, Florida. His background includes breaking, criminal justice, and writing for local news, producing on a national morning newscast in Washington, D.C., and working with an award-winning, weekly news program. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his dog at the beach.

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September 11, 2026Updated: September 11, 2026

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An Afghan national has been removed from the United States for her role in planning an ISIS-inspired mass shooting on Election Day in 2024, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said on Friday.

Nazira Haji Zada’s deportation was carried out through the long-dormant Alien Terrorist Removal Court, marking the first case ever brought before it. The announcement of the Afghan woman’s removal comes on the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

“This landmark case, resulting in the prompt removal of this alien terrorist to her country of origin, is a win for national security and the rule of law,” Attorney General Todd Blanche said in a news release.

The Alien Terrorist Removal Court issued the woman’s order of removal on Aug. 20, but that document was unsealed on Friday following her deportation to Afghanistan.

Zada is now permanently banned from ever returning to the United States, the DOJ said.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

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