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British journalist detained at airport, released after judges found freedom of speech breaches

Jun 8, 2026 · San Francisco, CA, United Kingdom

British journalist detained at airport, released after judges found freedom of speech breaches

Sami Hamdi, a 35-year-old British political journalist and commentator, was detained by ICE at San Francisco International Airport on October 27, 2025, after his visitor visa was revoked on October 24 without prior notice. U.S. officials cited comments he made about the Middle East, Gaza, and Israel during a speaking tour—including an address at a CAIR gala in Sacramento on October 26—as the reason for the visa revocation and detention. Held in an ICE facility with approximately 90 other detainees, Hamdi received minimal contact with his family and was initially denied medical care when he became ill. After approximately two weeks in custody, federal judges found serious breaches of freedom of speech and ordered his release without charge. His wife subsequently warned British citizens, particularly those planning to attend the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., about the risks of traveling to the country under expanded ICE enforcement operations.

Timeline

Jun 8, 2026Hamdi's wife publicly warned England fans traveling to 2026 World Cup of ICE enforcement risks
Nov 14, 2025Federal judges ordered Hamdi's release, finding serious breaches of freedom of speech; released without charge after approximately two weeks in detention
Oct 27, 2025Hamdi detained by ICE at San Francisco International Airport after visa revocation
Oct 26, 2025Hamdi addressed CAIR gala in Sacramento regarding Middle East issues
Oct 24, 2025Sami Hamdi's visitor visa revoked by State Department

Sources

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