Hamdi was in the U.S. for a speaking tour organized in part by the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR). The tour included events in California and Florida, where he criticized Israeli military actions in Gaza, describing them as “genocide.” CAIR condemned the detention as a “blatant violation of free speech” and an “abduction by federal authorities.”
“Mr. Hamdi has visited the U.S. multiple times without incident,” said Zahra Billoo, CAIR-SFBA Executive Director. “His only offense appears to be criticizing U.S. and Israeli foreign policy.”
Far-right activist Laura Loomer publicly claimed responsibility for alerting federal authorities, posting on X: “I reported Sami Hamdi to the FBI and DHS for supporting Islamic terrorism. He’s now in ICE custody. Another win for national security.”
The incident has ignited fierce debate over free expression, visa enforcement, and the influence of pro-Israel advocacy groups on U.S. immigration policy. Conservative voices praised the move as necessary enforcement, while civil liberties advocates warned of a chilling effect on international critics of U.S. allies.
Hamdi, a frequent contributor to Al Jazeera and Sky News, remains in ICE custody pending deportation proceedings. His legal team has filed an emergency motion challenging the visa revocation.The case comes amid heightened U.S. scrutiny of foreign nationals involved in pro-Palestinian activism and follows President Trump’s return to office, which has seen a renewed emphasis on immigration and counterterrorism measures.The British Foreign Office has been notified and is monitoring the situation.
