A group of Iranian Christians, including 27-year-old Artemis Ghasemzadeh, was deported from the U.S. to Panama, as part of the Trump administration's new deportation strategy. The individuals had arrived at the U.S.-Mexico border seeking asylum, fleeing persecution in Iran due to their Christian faith. The deportation involved military flights, with some migrants shackled during the journey. Advocates say this action violates asylum laws and puts the deportees at risk of harm.

The Iranian Christians, along with migrants from Afghanistan, China, and other nations, were sent to Panama under a U.S. initiative that involves outsourcing deportations to third countries like Panama and Costa Rica. While these nations cooperate with the U.S. government, critics argue that the flights circumvent proper asylum processes and expose individuals to potentially dangerous conditions.

Iranian Christians are particularly vulnerable, as their conversion from Islam is considered apostasy in Iran, punishable by death. Human rights advocates are alarmed by the lack of due process, with many migrants being flown to Panama without credible fear interviews.

The deportations are part of President Trump's efforts to tighten U.S. immigration policy and reduce the number of unauthorized migrants. However, immigrant rights groups are challenging the legality of the move, arguing that it endangers vulnerable migrants. Legal teams are working to prevent the return of those deported to countries where they could face persecution or death, with concerns over whether they will be safely resettled.

As this story unfolds, advocates fear that deported individuals like Ghasemzadeh may face dire consequences if returned to Iran, a country known for its harsh stance against religious minorities. The situation highlights the growing concern over the U.S.'s immigration strategy and its impact on those seeking asylum.