Trump says he’d ‘rather not destroy’ Iran but may ‘have to’: ‘You’ll know soon enough’

The Trump administration discussed the deportation of Iranian asylum seekers during the ongoing war with Iran, according to documents obtained by the Associated Press. The administration planned to deport Iranians through a third country, though the specific destination and timing were not disclosed. At least a dozen Iranians in Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody were informed they would be sent back to Iran, with some receiving the news as early as Sunday.

A judge ordered the administration to notify the court of any finalized deportation plans, providing a 24-hour notice and five days written notice before the deportation takes place. Despite the tense diplomatic relations between the US and Iran, the administration maintained contact with Iranian leaders to explore "possible avenues for removal" during the war.

The judge expressed concern about sending individuals back to Iran, where the US has engaged in bombings and the country is considered an enemy. The administration's actions have been criticized for potentially violating immigration laws and putting the detainees at risk of death.