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November 14, 2025 – UK/USA –
British political commentator Sami Hamdi has returned to the United Kingdom after being held in U.S. immigration detention for over two weeks, and described his experience as a direct challenge to freedom of speech.
Hamdi was detained on 26 October at San Francisco International Airport while on a speaking tour in the United States. U.S. authorities revoked his visa without prior notice, citing immigration violations, and transferred him into custody under the authority of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). His family later confirmed that the U.S. government agreed to his release and voluntary departure, prompting his return to the UK.
In his first remarks after arriving in London, Hamdi characterised his detention as “an attack on civil liberties … the U.S. Constitution … the rights of Americans and others” who speak out. He said his case should serve as a warning to journalists and activists worldwide that expressing dissent, especially on issues like Palestine, can incur serious risks, even under valid visas and in otherwise liberal democracies.
Civil-rights groups and press-freedom defenders immediately responded to the case. The Council on American‑Islamic Relations (CAIR) criticised the U.S. action as politically motivated, suggesting Hamdi was targeted for his outspoken commentary rather than genuine immigration violations. In his detention, Hamdi said he suffered health issues and endured harsh conditions; he noted that other detainees, legally living in the U.S., remained in limbo under prolonged ICE custody.
The case has sparked debate in the UK over the government’s response to the detention of a British journalist abroad. Hamdi’s wife warned British travelers—especially ahead of major events in the U.S.—about potential detention risks for exercising free speech while holding valid travel documents.
Hamdi’s return does not guarantee an end to the matter; he said he is exploring legal action against U.S. authorities but remains cautious about the prospects. The incident highlights growing concerns that national security and immigration enforcement systems can be used to suppress critical voices, raising urgent questions for media freedom around the world.
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