Urgent: Muslim Journalist Sami Hamdi Detained by ICE at SFO

URGENT UPDATE: British Muslim journalist and political commentator Sami Hamdi has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at San Francisco International Airport early this morning, according to Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security. This alarming incident raises significant concerns about free speech and the treatment of critics of foreign governments in the U.S.

McLaughlin confirmed that Hamdi’s visa was revoked, stating, “Under President Trump, those who support terrorism and undermine American national security will not be allowed to work or visit this country.” She commended DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and Secretary of State Marco Rubio for their roles in Hamdi’s detention, emphasizing a stringent approach to national security.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) National condemned Hamdi’s detention, labeling it an “injustice.” The organization reported that Hamdi was taken into custody in apparent retaliation for his vocal criticism of the Israeli government during his ongoing speaking tour. “Earlier this morning, ICE agents abducted British Muslim journalist and political commentator Sami Hamdi at San Francisco Airport,” CAIR stated on social media. “We can confirm that Mr. Hamdi has not been deported and remains in custody. Our attorneys and partners are working to address this injustice.”

Hamdi is the Editor-in-Chief at The International Interest, a magazine focusing on current affairs in the Middle East, Far East Asia, and the UK. He has also contributed articles to Al Jazeera in 2022, amplifying his voice in international discourse.

CAIR further criticized the U.S. government’s actions, stating, “Everyone should recognize that arresting a British citizen legally visiting the United States because he dared to criticize a foreign nation’s genocide is our government’s latest blatant affront to free speech.” They labeled the policy as an “Israel-first policy” that undermines American values.

This incident comes amid heightened tensions surrounding U.S. foreign policy and its implications for freedom of expression. Observers are calling for immediate action from civil rights organizations and political leaders to ensure the protection of journalists and commentators who speak out against perceived injustices.

As this situation develops, attention remains on Hamdi’s legal status and the responses from both government officials and human rights advocates. Advocates are urging the public to rally for Hamdi’s release and to challenge the policies that led to his detention.

Stay tuned for further updates as this urgent situation unfolds.