Warning to UK Football Fans Ahead of US World Cup After Journalist’s Detention
The wife of British journalist Sami hamdi has issued a warning to British citizens planning to travel to the United States for the upcoming World Cup,especially those “who value their freedom of speech.” This comes after Mr. Hamdi’s recent detention by US immigration authorities.
Ms. Hamdi expressed concern that similar incidents could occur again, stating, “If this could happen to Sami on a valid visa, a British citizen, a registered journalist, then it could very well happen again.” She also voiced dissatisfaction with the level of assistance received from the UK government, describing it as “really very disappointing” and urging stronger action regarding the situation with a “closest ally.”
Mr. Hamdi described his arrest as “quite an aggressive experience,” detailing how he was escorted from the airport and forcibly placed into a vehicle. He recounted being denied the chance to immediately contact his family, stating a female officer pushed him towards the car while telling him, “All right, that’s enough. You’re under arrest.”
While detained, Mr.Hamdi alleged a deliberate attempt to pressure him into leaving the US by restricting access to legal recourse. He stated, “You felt, like, with ICE, it’s a battle of wills…they keep delaying you and delaying until you’re just desperate to go home.”
Mr. Hamdi, a London resident and Muslim, maintains he fully complied with all visa regulations and believes his detention was connected to his advocacy for Gaza. His legal team confirmed he accepted a voluntary departure from the US after being charged with a visa overstay.
On Monday, his family announced the US government had agreed to free him (https://news.sky.com/story/british-journalist-sami-hamdi-being-held-by-us-immigration-to-be-freed-his-family-say-13468250), and confirmed on Thursday morning he was on a flight back to the UK.
Mr. Hamdi noted a marked improvement in his treatment after news outlets,including Sky News,reported on his case. He described being initially held in conditions where his requests for medical attention were ignored,stating,”They kept me there with 24 hours until my legs were swollen…the guards simply ignored it.”
The detention occurred amidst a broader immigration crackdown by the Trump governance, which has included visa revocations for individuals accused of supporting terrorism and the deportation of those expressing support for Palestinians.
A spokesperson for the US Department of Homeland Security stated Mr. Hamdi’s visa was revoked as “those who support terrorism and undermine American national security will not be allowed to work or visit this country.” However, Mr.Hamdi disputes this claim, stating the charge sheet contained no mention of terrorism-related accusations. He believes the resolution was ultimately a matter of “face-saving” for the US authorities, adding, “I was happy to go home.”
