(SACRAMENTO, CA – October 26, 2025) — CAIR Action stands in solidarity with the family of journalist and political commentator Sami Hamdi, who was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in what appears to be a politically motivated attempt to silence his advocacy for Palestinian human rights.
We are sharing the following statement on behalf of Sami Hamdi’s family, who are calling for his immediate release and for the U.S. and U.K. governments to uphold their commitments to press freedom and human rights.
Media contact: freesamihamdi@gmail.com
STATEMENT: SAMI HAMDI’S FAMILY CALLS FOR HIS IMMEDIATE RELEASE AFTER US ICE ARREST
“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.
Sami is an acclaimed journalist and political commentator, widely recognised for his work on global affairs and for speaking out courageously on issues of justice and human rights — including Palestinian rights. His sudden detention by the US government appears to be a politically motivated act of intimidation, and intended to silence journalists and commentators who speak truth to power.
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.
Sami was on a speaking tour across North America when a politicised group of social media influencers targeted him for his support for Palestinian rights. They have mischaracterised my husband and his views in an effort to discredit and silence him. Sami is a highly effective political commentator and analyst and was invited to share his expertise on Sky News just last week.
Sami’s advocacy at events across America is simple: millions of Americans are facing food insecurity and falling living standards. He argues that taxpayers’ money should prioritise healthcare, housing, and welfare rather than being depleted by providing political support for Israel. Sami believes no country’s foreign policy should emphasise the interests of another state. In a recent interview, he said of the American public: ‘I believe in humanity and the natural good that exists in human beings.’
Sami’s arrest by ICE is the latest in a series of attempts by US authorities to suppress free speech and opposition to Israel’s genocide in Gaza.
I urge the government of the United Kingdom to provide full consular support for Sami. It has yet to do so. I also ask them to defend my husband and provide the protection and support that every British citizen deserves. So far, we are becoming increasingly concerned by their lack of action and communication and we hope this changes soon.
Our aims are straightforward: we want Sami brought home to his family in the UK immediately and for his good name to be cleared.”
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CONTACT:
Hamdi Family Media Contact: freesamihamdi@gmail.com
Basim Elkarra, Executive Director, CAIR Action — belkarra@cairaction.org
CAIR Action Communications — media@cairaction.org
