Colorado Democrats are urging federal immigration authorities to release Mohammad Ali Dadfar, an Afghan immigrant who supported U.S. troops against the Taliban, describing his treatment as “cruel and inhumane.” Dadfar, who dedicated 14 years to the Afghan Army and provided vital security for American soldiers, was apprehended during an ICE operation in Indiana while driving as a long-haul truck driver. He has been held in a Missouri detention center for nearly a month.
According to his attorney Tiago Guevara from Longmont, Dadfar had been granted humanitarian parole due to the dangerous circumstances in Afghanistan and was in the process of seeking asylum through his regular appearances in immigration court. U.S. Representative Joe Neguse, who represents Boulder County, labeled the actions of immigration officials as “deplorable” and expressed a commitment to assist with Dadfar’s legal situation. He emphasized that Dadfar’s detention, given his role as an Afghan ally, is a glaring example of failing immigration policies.
Fellow Democrat and former Army Ranger Rep. Jason Crow noted the critical role Afghan allies played during combat missions in Afghanistan, stating, “After the war, we promised we’d have their back.” Crow also highlighted his support for the Afghan Adjustment Act, which aims to provide a pathway to lawful permanent residency for thousands of Afghans currently in the U.S.
Dadfar, 37, fled Afghanistan in 2021 amid escalating threats after the Taliban regained control of Kabul. His perilous journey to safety included traveling with his wife and four children through Iran and Brazil before reaching the U.S. border, where they successfully claimed asylum. Once in the U.S., they settled in Louisville, close to family.
Despite having received humanitarian parole—an immigration status for individuals facing severe humanitarian crises—Dadfar was unexpectedly detained under “Operation Midway Blitz,” targeting immigrants with commercial driver’s licenses from “sanctuary states.” His attorney confirmed that Dadfar has not been charged with any crime and had complied with all immigration obligations.
Guevara is seeking to move Dadfar’s immigration case from Missouri to Denver, allowing him to be closer to his family and legal counsel while awaiting a court ruling. Meanwhile, ICE officials have not provided any additional comments following media inquiries.
This situation reflects broader issues within immigration policies, particularly regarding those who have loyally supported U.S. military efforts abroad. As advocacy continues for Dadfar’s release, the hope remains that he and his family can find the stability and safety they sought in their arduous journey to the United States.