Overview
- Sami Hamdi, a British journalist and editor of The International Interest, was detained by immigration authorities at San Francisco International Airport while on a U.S. speaking tour.
- DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin announced on social media that Hamdi’s visa was revoked and that he is in ICE custody pending removal, praising DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
- CAIR confirmed Hamdi has not been deported and remains in custody, calling the detention an injustice and saying its attorneys are working to secure his release.
- McLaughlin framed the move as part of barring those who support terrorism from entering or working in the U.S., while DHS and ICE offered no further details beyond the post.
- Right-wing activists including Laura Loomer and RAIR founder Amy Mek publicly urged action and claimed credit, with outlets reporting unverified allegations that Hamdi praised Hamas.