British political commentator Sami Hamdi was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at San Francisco International Airport on Monday, according to federal officials. The detention reportedly relates to Hamdi’s vocal criticism of the Israeli government during a speaking tour in the United States, raising concerns over freedom of speech protections.
Hamdi, a 35-year-old Muslim, had addressed the annual gala for the Sacramento chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) just days before his detention. In a post on social media, CAIR described the situation as an “abduction” and emphasized that Hamdi remains in U.S. custody without being deported.
Detention Linked to Visa Revocation
According to a senior U.S. official, Hamdi’s visa was revoked on October 24, 2023, following a review of his statements regarding the Middle East. The official did not elaborate on which specific comments triggered the action. Hamdi was traveling on a visitor visa, not under the Visa Waiver Program, which British citizens can access. The official, who requested anonymity, did not clarify why it took several days to locate and detain him.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed on social media that Hamdi’s visa revocation is linked to his perceived support for activities deemed harmful to U.S. interests. A spokesperson stated, “The United States has no obligation to host foreigners whom we determine to support terrorism and actively undermine the safety of Americans.”
In a statement, ICE explained that Hamdi entered the U.S. on October 19, 2023, and had been detained because he was considered illegally present in the country. His case adds to a growing list of individuals facing similar scrutiny under the current administration’s immigration policies.
Calls for Release and Reactions
CAIR has called for Hamdi’s immediate release, emphasizing the potential violation of constitutional protections for freedom of speech that should extend to all individuals within U.S. borders. Critics of the administration’s actions highlight that such detentions may stifle dissent and discourage open discourse.
Hamdi is known for his outspoken views against the Israeli government and its actions in Gaza. He has faced backlash for comments made in a video following the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas, which he claimed were misinterpreted. Hamdi stated, “No one is saying October 7 was right. People are saying it was a natural consequence of the oppression on Palestinians.”
Britain’s Foreign Office has confirmed that it is in contact with Hamdi’s family and local authorities regarding his detention. As of now, he was scheduled to speak at a CAIR event in Florida prior to his arrest.
In a broader context, the administration has intensified its scrutiny of foreign nationals, previously expelling South Africa’s ambassador over critical comments about President Donald Trump and revoking visas for individuals deemed to pose a risk to national safety. This approach has raised alarms among civil rights advocates who argue it undermines the foundational values of free expression.
