A video circulating online has sparked outrage and concern after it captured U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detaining a man in San Diego who claims he supported American forces during the war in Afghanistan. The incident has raised questions about how the U.S. treats its wartime allies, especially those who risked their lives to assist American troops.
The man, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed for safety reasons, was seen being escorted into an ICE vehicle outside a local business. Onlookers recorded the encounter, and in the video, the man can be heard pleading in English, stating, “I helped U.S. forces in Afghanistan… I thought I was safe here.”
According to witnesses, the man appeared calm and cooperative during the arrest. He reportedly told bystanders that he worked as an interpreter for the U.S. military and had been in the country legally while awaiting permanent residency. However, it’s unclear what his current immigration status is or what led to the ICE action.
Immigrant advocacy groups in California have condemned the arrest, calling it a betrayal of America’s promise to protect those who served alongside U.S. troops. “This man stood with us in combat,” said Sarah Caldwell of the Refugee Support Alliance. “To detain him like this, without transparency, sends a chilling message to others who supported our forces abroad.”
ICE has not issued a detailed public statement but confirmed that a lawful enforcement action took place. “The individual was taken into custody pending further review of his immigration status,” a spokesperson said, declining to comment further due to privacy concerns.
Legal experts note that even individuals with a history of supporting U.S. military operations can face deportation if they fail to maintain legal status or if there are technical issues in their asylum or visa applications. However, many argue that the U.S. has a moral obligation to ensure such individuals receive protection and fair treatment.
The incident comes at a time when immigration policies remain a contentious issue nationwide. Advocates are urging elected officials to step in and ensure that allies of the U.S. military, especially those from war zones like Afghanistan, are not unjustly targeted or deported.
As the video continues to spread, pressure is mounting on ICE and lawmakers to clarify the man’s legal situation and guarantee the safety of those who risked everything to help American soldiers.
Learn More