Justice Department Launches Largest Denaturalization Effort in Modern History, Targeting 40 Naturalized Americans

• by Shimanta Das
• October 9, 2026

The US Department of Justice announced on Monday a sweeping move to strip citizenship from 40 naturalized Americans, marking what Attorney General Todd Blanche called the “largest denaturalization effort in modern history.” The announcement targets individuals accused of concealing critical facts during their naturalization process, including serious criminal offenders such as a person convicted of espionage and others convicted of sexual offenses against minors.

In a statement, Blanche emphasized the gravity of the allegations: “These defendants concealed critical facts from the US government and represent serious criminal offenders.” He added, “Under President Trump’s leadership, the Department of Justice will continue to employ the denaturalization process to maintain our national security and protect the American people.” The DOJ cited the Immigration and Nationality Act, which allows for the revocation of citizenship if it was obtained illegally, through concealment of important facts, or by deliberate false information during the application process.

Among the cases highlighted, one individual, Ul Haque, allegedly remained illegally in the United States for decades before using a current identity to obtain permanent residence through a family-based immigration petition in 2005. Another case involved a woman who was unlawfully granted permanent residence under the Cuban Adjustment Act and later naturalized in 2013 while maintaining a fraudulent Cuban identity. The DOJ also noted that one person, Ali, fraudulently filed work petitions to allow a family member to remain in the country. Additionally, some individuals were accused of acting as agents for China’s intelligence service through US-based non-governmental organizations.

The announcement underscores the administration’s intensified focus on immigration enforcement and national security. Legal experts note that denaturalization is a rare but powerful tool, typically reserved for cases involving fraud, concealment, or serious crimes. The DOJ’s action signals a broader push to scrutinize past naturalization approvals and hold accountable those who allegedly exploited the system. As these cases proceed, they are likely to spark debates over due process and the limits of government power in revoking citizenship.