Overview
- Hamdi’s family and CAIR said the government agreed to release the British commentator after he accepted an offer to depart the United States voluntarily and return to the UK.
- CAIR-California stated the immigration charging document alleged only a visa overstay and did not identify any criminal conduct or national-security grounds.
- DHS officials revoked Hamdi’s visa and described him as a supporter of terrorism who threatens national security, referencing outside reports that his supporters dispute.
- ICE detained Hamdi at San Francisco International Airport on October 26 during a U.S. speaking tour, and his wife reported a medical emergency and delays in treatment while he was in custody.
- Hamdi’s lawyers challenged the detention in federal court on First Amendment and due-process grounds, and the UK Foreign Office provided consular assistance as advocates warned of a chilling effect on journalists.