DOJ Says Zada Conceded Terror Status, Faced No Criminal Charge
Zada's removal order came August 20, 2026 from Judge Joan N. Ericksen, while her son began a 15-year sentence and her son-in-law awaits his.
- The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced September 11, 2026 that Nazira Haji Zada, 47, was never criminally charged but conceded terrorist status.
- Attorney General Todd Blanche: "Those who support and condone terrorism should not be living in the United States."
- Son Abdullah Haji Zada got 15 years; son-in-law Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi awaits sentencing.
Why it matters: No criminal charge was needed: a judge's finding of terrorist status alone ended her right to stay.
DOJ Office of Public Affairs press release ↗ · Sep 16, 20269/16/26 · Updated Sep 16