WANA (Jul 24) – The U.S. immigration authorities have arrested Mehdi Khanbabazadeh, a 38-year-old Iranian Doctor, on charges of unlawful residency. The arrest took place shortly after he dropped off his daughter at a daycare center, sparking criticism from the local community.

 

According to media reports, Iranian Doctor Khanbabazadeh had graduated from a U.S. university four years ago. While still under the protections granted to recent graduates, he married a U.S. citizen and, four months ago, completed his green card interview. He was reportedly awaiting a decision from U.S. immigration services at the time of his arrest.

 

Khanbabazadeh was transferred to the Tacoma Detention Center in Washington State, which operates under the authority of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

 

The arrest—carried out in the daycare parking lot—has drawn backlash from the local community, with many questioning the timing and manner of the operation.

 

A spokesperson for ICE confirmed the arrest and stated that the agency had the necessary authorization to carry out the operation in the parking area. According to the spokesperson, Khanbabazadeh refused to exit his vehicle, prompting officers to break the car window and proceed with the arrest.

 

The case has raised concerns about immigration enforcement practices and the treatment of individuals with pending legal residency applications.