The family of British commentator Sami Hamdi has accused the US government of “abducting” him over the weekend, claiming his detention was politically motivated and linked to his advocacy for Palestinian human rights.
Hamdi, managing director of The International Interest and a regular political commentator on UK television, was detained by US immigration officials while on a speaking tour in Florida on Sunday.
His visa has been revoked, and he remains in the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), according to the Department of Homeland Security.
In a statement, Hamdi’s family said: “Our beloved Sami was abducted over the weekend by the US government because of his courageous and effective advocacy for Palestinian human rights. He is now being held captive thousands of miles away from our children, who miss their father dearly and were looking forward to spending the school break with him.
“Sami is, above all, a family man who has a strong sense of justice. He is a devoted husband, father, son, and friend who goes above and beyond to serve his community and care for those around him. He is also a journalist, political commentator, and human rights defender who has dedicated his life to speaking out against injustices and upholding freedom of the press.”
The family said Hamdi’s “sudden detention by the US government appears to be a politically motivated act of intimidation” intended to silence “journalists and commentators who speak truth to power.”
His wife added: “We are convinced that an error has been made and we believe that once officials understand my husband's background and advocacy, this matter will be redressed.”
She said Hamdi had been targeted online by “a politicised group of social media influencers” because of his support for Palestinian rights, claiming they had “mischaracterised my husband and his views in an effort to discredit and silence him.”
According to the family, Hamdi’s recent speeches across the US focused on social and economic issues, arguing that “taxpayers’ money should prioritise healthcare, housing, and welfare rather than being depleted by providing political support for Israel.”
