Justice Department Uses Special Court for First-Time Removal Case

In February 2026, an image of President Trump adorned the facade of the U.S. Department of Justice headquarters in Washington, D.C. The Justice Department is now utilizing a special court to seek the removal of a woman accused of supporting the Islamic State.

The Justice Department aims to deport Nazira Haji Zada, a lawful permanent resident, by using the Alien Terrorist Removal Court. This court was established by Congress in 1996, designed to facilitate the deportation of individuals using classified evidence. Zada, based in Fort Worth, Texas, is scheduled to appear for her first hearing on Thursday.

This court has never been used before. However, this month, the Justice Department initiated proceedings against Zada, aiming to address connections to her son and son-in-law. Both men face charges for attempting to attack the 2024 elections in support of the Islamic State. They have received prison sentences and will be deported upon completion of their terms.

“The allegations in this case show the matriarch of an ISIS-sympathizing family aiding in a plot to launch a mass casualty attack on American voters on Election Day,” stated acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The Department’s application in this court makes clear that terrorists have no place in the United States of America.”

Chief Judge Joan Ericksen of the Alien Terrorist Removal Court will oversee the proceedings.