(MENAFN) The School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) in London has voiced serious concern over the detention of its alumnus, British-Tunisian journalist Sami Hamdi, in the United States, urging that his case be handled with full transparency and due process.

According to reports, Hamdi had legally entered the US on a valid visa to take part in a speaking tour across several states. "There is no indication that Mr. Hamdi has violated any laws," the institution stated, emphasizing the need for fairness and openness in the investigation.

Hamdi was detained on Oct. 26 by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at San Francisco International Airport while preparing to travel to Florida for an event organized by the California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-CA).

In its statement, SOAS said: “We urge the US authorities to ensure full transparency and due process in Mr. Hamdi’s case, and to uphold his fundamental right to freedom of expression and movement.”

Following his arrest, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the State Department released statements alleging that Hamdi supported terrorism and posed a threat to national security. “This individual’s visa was revoked and he is in ICE custody pending removal. Under President (Donald) Trump, those who support terrorism and undermine American national security will not be allowed to work or visit this country. It’s common sense,” wrote Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary at DHS, on X.

Hamdi’s wife, Soumaya Hamdi, dismissed the accusations, claiming his detention is part of a wider attempt “to silence pro-Palestinian activists.” Human rights advocates have similarly condemned the move, describing it as an infringement of free speech rights protected under the US Constitution.

“Our demand from the British government is very clear. They need to bring Sami home immediately,” Soumaya told a news agency.

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