British journalist and media commentator Sami Hamdi has been detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after his visa was revoked, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Hamdi, known for his outspoken criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza, was reportedly taken into custody while on a speaking tour across the United States.
DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that Hamdi is in ICE custody pending removal from the country. She stated that the State Department and DHS believe Hamdi “supports terrorism and poses a threat to national security.”
However, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has condemned the arrest, arguing that Hamdi is being targeted for his political views and criticism of Israel. The organisation said Hamdi was detained at San Francisco International Airport on Sunday, shortly after speaking at CAIR Sacramento’s annual gala. He had been scheduled to address another CAIR event in Florida the following day.
In a statement, CAIR accused US authorities of adopting an “Israel First policy” and demanded Hamdi’s immediate release. “Our nation must stop abducting critics of the Israeli government at the behest of unhinged Israel First bigots,” CAIR declared.
The arrest follows a social media campaign by far-right activist Laura Loomer, who accused Hamdi of supporting terrorist groups — claims CAIR dismissed as “anti-Muslim conspiracy theories.”
Despite public statements, neither DHS, ICE, nor the State Department have provided evidence supporting the terrorism allegations.
Hamdi’s case echoes similar incidents, including the detention of Mahmoud Khalil, a pro-Palestinian Columbia University graduate whose visa was revoked earlier this year. Advocacy groups warn that these arrests represent a growing crackdown on pro-Palestinian voices in the United States.
As of now, Hamdi remains in ICE custody while legal teams work to challenge his removal and defend his right to free expression.
