Journalist Released After Airport Detention
British journalist and political analyst Sami Hamdi was released from U.S. immigration custody on Monday, November 10, following his detention at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) the day prior.
Details of Detention
Hamdi was held upon arriving at SFO on Sunday, November 9. Officials from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) said he underwent “additional screening” and was placed at the West County Detention Facility in Richmond, California.
Legal Intervention Leads to Release
Hamdi’s release came after his attorneys filed a habeas corpus petition in federal court. ICE confirmed that he was “subsequently released on his own recognizance.” A hearing regarding the circumstances of his detention is scheduled for December.
Purpose of U.S. Visit
As managing director of global risk and intelligence firm The Global Interest, Hamdi was traveling to the U.S. en route to the Latin American Amateur (LATAM) golf championship in Panama. He holds a valid B1/B2 visa for business and tourism and had planned to fly from San Francisco to Panama.
Statements from Officials and Legal Team
An ICE spokesperson described the detention as part of “further immigration vetting.” Hamdi’s lawyers maintained that his detention was unlawful, citing his valid visa and history of multiple U.S. visits without issues. Speaking after his release, Hamdi called the ordeal “traumatic” but expressed relief and said he was “looking forward to returning to the UK.”International Attention
The detention sparked international media coverage. A spokesperson for the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office confirmed support was being provided to Hamdi during the situation. The case was reported widely by major news outlets in both the UK and U.S.
