Summary
A 41-year-old Arabic translator for a defense contractor was granted a security clearance despite concerns under Guideline B (Foreign Influence). The Statement of Reasons cited that his mother and three sisters reside and work in Iraq, and his in-laws live in Lebanon. These family ties raised concerns that his relatives could be exploited by a foreign power, leading to the application of disqualifying conditions E2.A2.1.2.1, E2.A2.1.2.3, and E2.A2.1.2.6.
However, the applicant successfully mitigated these concerns, with mitigating condition E2.A2.1.3.1 being applied. He demonstrated strong ties to the U.S. through home ownership and family residing domestically. His extensive work experience as a translator for the U.S. Army in Iraq, where he received high praise, further supported his case.
Crucially, the applicant took deliberate steps to avoid contact with his family in Iraq while serving, aiming to protect both their safety and his own. These factors, including his strong U.S. connections and lack of direct family contact during service, led to the decision to grant his security clearance.
Why the Applicant Prevailed
- Applicant demonstrated strong ties to the U.S. through home ownership and family residing in the U.S.
- He worked as a translator for the U.S. Army in Iraq, receiving high praise for his performance.
- Applicant took deliberate steps to avoid contact with his family in Iraq while serving to protect both their safety and his own.
Conditions Referenced
- E2.A2.1.2.1raisedDC 1: an Immediate Family Member, or a Person to Whom the Individual Has Close Ties of Affection or Obligation, Is a Citizen Of, or Resident or Present In, a Foreign Country.
- E2.A2.1.2.3raisedDC 3: Relatives Who Are Connected with Any Foreign Government.
- E2.A2.1.2.6raisedDC 6: Conduct Which May Make the Individual Vulnerable to Coercion, Exploitation, or Pressure by a Foreign Government.
- E2.A2.1.3.1rejectedMC 1: the Nature of the Relationships with Foreign Persons Is Such That the Individual Is Not Vulnerable to Coercion, Exploitation, or Pressure.Applicant's family ties in Iraq were deemed a potential vulnerability, but his actions mitigated this risk.
Key Rule Quoted
“"[N]o one has a 'right' to a security clearance."”
Procedural Posture
- SOR issuedApr 6, 2006
- Answer filedMay 28, 2006
- Hearing heldOct 13, 2006
- Decision dateDec 27, 2006
Cite For
- Mitigation of Foreign Influence Concerns Under Guideline B
- Importance of Strong U.S. Ties in Security Clearance Decisions
- Impact of Military Service on Security Clearance Evaluations