British Journalist Detained at San Francisco Airport
U.S. immigration authorities have detained British commentator Sami Hamdi, revoking his visa and placing him in custody pending deportation, according to a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson.
Hamdi, known for his appearances on international news programs and as editor of The International Interest, was reportedly stopped at San Francisco International Airport while traveling between engagements. He had recently spoken at a Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) event in Sacramento and was scheduled to appear at another in Florida.
DHS Cites National Security Concerns
DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin stated on X (formerly Twitter), “Under President Trump, those who support terrorism and undermine American national security will not be allowed to work or visit this country.”
Hamdi’s visa revocation comes amid the Trump administration’s expanded immigration enforcement measures, including heightened vetting and the deportation of individuals accused of expressing support for designated groups or hostile foreign interests.
CAIR Decries Detention, Calls for Immediate Release
CAIR condemned Hamdi’s detention, alleging it was politically motivated due to his public criticism of the Israeli government and its military actions in Gaza. The group’s deputy director, Edward Ahmed Mitchell, said their legal team has not been able to contact Hamdi since the arrest.
“Abducting a prominent British Muslim journalist and political commentator on a speaking tour in the United States because he dared to criticize the Israeli government’s genocide is a blatant affront to free speech,” CAIR said in a statement.
Conservative Figures Applaud Deportation Effort
Conservative activist Laura Loomer claimed credit for Hamdi’s arrest on social media, reinforcing the Trump administration’s hardline posture toward foreign nationals perceived to be politically hostile or connected to extremist ideologies.
This move follows a series of high-profile visa revocations and deportations involving international students, green card holders, and visitors accused of sympathizing with Hamas or voicing opposition to Israel’s war conduct.
Background on the Gaza Conflict and Political Backdrop
Israel’s ongoing campaign in Gaza — launched in response to Hamas’ October 2023 attacks — has prompted significant global debate. While Israel maintains that its military actions target Hamas, a recent U.N. commission alleged acts of genocide, a charge Israel firmly denies.
Hamdi, an outspoken critic of the Israeli government’s operations, has been part of a broader wave of international figures facing increased travel restrictions and surveillance amid rising global tensions.
Related Coverage
- National News – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
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