Palestinian Activists Deported After SFO Detention

Two Palestinian humanitarian activists, an artist and an educator from the West Bank, were detained at San Francisco International Airport and denied entry into the United States despite holding valid visitor visas and being invited by local faith communities to speak at humanitarian events. Sponsored by local churches and synagogues, they planned to share their experiences and raise funds for humanitarian causes. Their detention prompted protests at the airport, led by San Francisco Supervisor Bilal Mahmood and supported by groups such as the Council on American-Islamic Relations, who described the incident as an unprecedented suppression of speech. U.S. Customs and Border Protection did not provide reasons for revoking their visas, and the men were ultimately deported after more than 18 hours in detention. The incident has prompted concerns about due process and discrimination against Palestinian travelers, with faith leaders and civil rights advocates demanding accountability and a case review. Community support remains strong for the activists, who are known for their nonviolent humanitarian efforts.