Sami Hamdi is a British political commentator, analyst, and the editor/manager behind The International Interest, a publication and global risk-intelligence operation focused on the Middle East, North Africa and wider geopolitics.
Known for frequent TV appearances, commentary, and public speaking, Hamdi has built a public profile that blends journalism, geopolitical consulting and advocacy. In late October 2025, he became the subject of international attention after being detained by U.S. immigration authorities when his visa was revoked — an event that underlined the tensions between national security policy and freedom of expression.
Early life and education
Publicly available profiles indicate that Hamdi was born and raised in the United Kingdom and pursued studies focused on Middle Eastern politics and international relations. His LinkedIn and event bios list study at SOAS (School of Oriental and African Studies), University of London — a common training ground for analysts of the MENA region — which helped shape his academic grounding in regional politics and diplomatic history.
Career overview
Sami Hamdi’s career spans journalism, political commentary, advisory work and running a media/consultancy operation:
- The International Interest / Managing Director & Editor: Hamdi is widely listed as the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief (or Editor) of The International Interest, a platform that provides geopolitical analysis, intelligence and commentary for public audiences and private clients. His role combines editorial oversight with advising organizations on political risks in volatile markets.
- Media appearances and commentary: Hamdi is a familiar face on international news outlets. He has appeared as a commentator on networks such as Al Jazeera, BBC, Sky News and TRT World, offering analysis on the Middle East, North Africa and global geopolitical shifts.
- Consultancy and advisory work: Beyond broadcast commentary and editorial work, Hamdi’s activity includes advising governments, NGOs and corporations on market entry, stakeholder engagement and political risk in the MENA region.
Public profile and themes in his work
Hamdi’s commentary frequently focuses on the geopolitics of the Middle East and North Africa, European relations with MENA, and the diplomatic, humanitarian and security dimensions of regional conflicts. He often frames stories from the perspective of political risk, public policy impacts and the human consequences of state action and conflict. This positioning explains why he is regularly invited to speak at policy forums, conferences and civil society gatherings.
Notable events & controversies
In October 2025 he was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at San Francisco International Airport after the U.S. State Department revoked his visa during a speaking tour; officials cited national security concerns and public comments related to the Gaza conflict as the basis for revocation. The detention triggered responses from civil rights groups and media organizations who raised free-speech concerns while some critics cited past statements they considered inflammatory. The episode became widely reported across international news outlets and sparked debate about visa revocations and political speech.
Style and influence
Hamdi’s commentary style is direct and often unapologetic; he speaks to both specialist and mainstream audiences, mixing policy analysis with political advocacy. He commands attention through television, live events and editorial pieces, and he occupies a space where journalism, advocacy and consultancy overlap. That dual presence — public pundit and private adviser — enables him to shape narratives while also informing institutional decision-making.
Achievements and recognition
While Hamdi is primarily known for his public commentary and his leadership of The International Interest, his consistent presence on international news platforms and participation in global forums have made him a recognized voice on MENA geopolitics. He has been invited to speak at numerous conferences, and his analysis is regularly cited by major outlets seeking quick expert reaction to unfolding events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Sami Hamdi?
Sami Hamdi is a British political commentator, analyst and the managing director/editor of The International Interest, known for commentary on the Middle East and North Africa.
What is The International Interest?
The International Interest is a publication and intelligence/consultancy platform that covers geopolitical developments, with emphasis on MENA and related global policy issues. Hamdi holds a senior leadership role there.
Has Sami Hamdi worked with major media organisations?
Yes. Hamdi frequently appears on networks such as Al Jazeera, BBC, Sky News and TRT World as a commentator and analyst.
Why was Sami Hamdi detained in the United States?
In October 2025, U.S. officials revoked Hamdi’s visa and immigration authorities detained him, citing national security concerns linked to his public statements; the incident prompted debate about free speech and visa policy.
Where did Sami Hamdi study?
Public profiles list SOAS, University of London among Hamdi’s educational background, where he studied Middle Eastern politics and related subjects.
Conclusion
Sami Hamdi is a prominent, sometimes polarizing, figure in today’s discussion of Middle Eastern geopolitics. Combining editorial leadership, broadcast commentary and advisory work, he has built influence that reaches governments, media and civil society. The October 2025 detention in the U.S. cast a spotlight on the limits of international travel for outspoken commentators and raised wider questions about how democratic societies balance national-security controls with free expression. Whether you view him as a necessary voice for underrepresented perspectives or as a controversial commentator, Hamdi’s role in shaping modern debate on MENA affairs is clear and consequential.